Aquatic Ecology

Water is increasing in value and declining in availability across much of the world, while hydrological processes are undergoing rapid change under a fluctuating climate.  Central to the increased efficiency of exploitation and preservation of the world’s freshwater is an understanding of the abiotic and biotic processes that underlie water-related ecosystem services.  water@leeds links over 150 researchers across the university to form the largest interdisciplinary centre for water research in the UK, encompassing expertise from across the physical, biological, chemical, social and economic sciences and engineering as well as the arts.  A new Aquatic Ecology Research Group (AERG) has formed as part of water@leeds, with a core of internationally excellent ecologists from the Schools of Biology, Geography and the Faculty of Engineering.  AERG’s 5 year aim is to be recognised as one of the strongest aquatic ecology groups in Europe.

We seek to build further capacity in this area by appointing a Fellow who can bring complementary high-quality expertise in freshwater ecology.  You will be based in the School of Biology and provide a link between research in Biology (e.g. invasive species, conservation biology, disease, urban ecology), Geography (e.g. nutrient cycling, metabolism, pollution control), and Engineering (e.g. water management, water treatment, sensing technology) in order to facilitate the integration of the university’s considerable ecological expertise into the water agenda. Through the water@leeds network, you will have the opportunity to link your research into the research needs of key stakeholders, including water companies, nature conservation agencies, charities and government agencies on globally important issues such as climate change, biological invasions, nutrients and water quality, effects of novel pollutants and/or land management change.

You will have significant proven research experience within the field of Aquatic Ecology, including a demonstrated ability to publish in top-ranking journals. We expect a commitment to interdisciplinary work to take advantage of the opportunities afford by water@leeds alongside a clear plan for your own personal research trajectory.  In particular, you will be expected to leverage cutting edge research in areas such as environmental biosensors, molecular ecology, lab and field experimental systems, and the extensive field sites that are currently studied by research groups at the university (including upland peat bogs, headwater streams, regulated rivers, urban waterways). You will also be able to contribute to teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate level.

A proven record of achievement in international quality publications is essential to contribute to the University’s ambition to excel at REF2020. In addition, the candidate will provide research supervision and attract research students to the University and undertake a teaching load deemed appropriate by the Head of School, which will be significantly reduced in the first years of the fellowship.

University Grade 8 (£38,511 to £45,954)

For informal enquiries about the role please contact Professor Brendan Davies, tel: +44 (0)113 343 3123, email: B.H.Davies@leeds.ac.uk.

Ref: FBSBY1008

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