Research Assistant in Water Quality and Pollution Management

Overview

This position is a 2‑year fixed‑term Research Assistant role focused on Water Quality and Pollution Management in the River Wye catchment. It is funded by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs and Welsh Government, and is part of UWE Bristol’s Research Beacons.

• Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team (water quality, soil science, ecology, social science and farming systems) to deliver research on co‑designed living labs within the River Wye.
• Implement, monitor and assess the impact of water‑quality interventions at both local and catchment scales through laboratory, field and desk‑based activities.
• Conduct laboratory analysis, water‑quality sampling, chemical and microbiological testing, and use in‑situ sensors.
• Analyse and critically evaluate data, producing reports and contributing to scientific publications.
• Work closely with supervisors, students, technicians and post‑doctoral researchers, communicating progress and findings.

• BSc in a relevant scientific discipline (mandatory); a Master’s degree and experience in laboratory or field research are desirable.
• Practical laboratory and field sampling skills, with experience in water‑quality analysis.
• Experience with spatial analysis and data visualisation tools such as ArcGIS (Pro, Arc Map or Online) is preferred.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to critically assess data and results.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities across diverse research groups.

The role includes paid leave, pension schemes, retail savings, onsite nursery and opportunities for training and personal development. Pay is aligned with the University’s salary assessment guidelines.

• Full‑time (1.0 FTE) fixed‑term position until 31 September 2028.
• Based at UWE Bristol’s Frenchay Campus; remote work allowed for field‑based tasks.
• Job‑share option for part‑time applicants.
• Right to work in the UK is required; the role does not offer Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.