Research Associate in Trace Metal Geochemistry (Palaeoclimate

This post is currently open to employees of Cardiff University only.  Please do not apply if you do not have a current contract of employment with the University.

Internal Applicants Only - Research Associate in Trace Metal Geochemistry (Palaeoclimate)

We are looking for a trace metal geochemist with experience in palaeoclimate reconstruction to join the international Horizon Europe Past2Future Project Team in March 2025, working with Caroline Lear and Stephen Barker in the School of Earth and Environmental Sciences at Cardiff University. The overall goal of the Past2Future Project is to use records of past climate change to improve future climate projections.

In this role, you will:

• Analyse foraminifera for their trace metal and stable isotope composition
• Use geochemical records to reconstruct and interpret past changes in global climate including continental ice volume
• Take a leading role in public engagement activities integral to the Past2Future Project, including working with local communities.

We’d like to hear from you if you:
 

• Have experience analysing biogenic carbonate for its trace metal composition by sector field ICP-MS
• Have interpreted geochemical proxy records in terms of past environmental and Earth System change
• Have experience working with communities to deliver and evaluate effective public engagement

We can offer you the chance to work in a vibrant organisation, with great benefits and opportunities for progression. We are a proud Living Wage supporter.

This role is eligible to be offered on a blended working basis, meaning that as well as spending time working on campus you may spend some time working from another location, e.g. your home. The University is committed to offering this flexibility, wherever the role and business need allows, supporting work-life balance.

Please contact Caroline Lear (LearC@cardiff.ac.uk) or Stephen Barker (BarkerS3@cardiff.ac.uk) for an informal, confidential discussion about the role.

This post is full-time and fixed-term for a period of 41 months.

Salary: £40,247 - £45,163 per annum (Grade 6)

Closing date: Thursday, 19 December 2024

External applications are currently not being considered for this post.  If the decision is made to open the post to external candidates, the strapline at the top will be removed and you will be given ample time to apply – please check back periodically for details.

Please be aware that Cardiff University reserves the right to close this vacancy early should sufficient applications be received.

Cardiff University is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and to creating an inclusive working environment. We believe this can be achieved through attracting, developing, and retaining a diverse range of staff from many different backgrounds who have the ambition to create a University which seeks to fulfil our social, cultural and economic obligation to Cardiff, Wales, and the world.  In supporting our employees to achieve a balance between their work and their personal lives, we will also consider proposals for flexible working or job share arrangements.

Applications may be submitted in Welsh, and an application submitted in Welsh will not be treated less favourably than an application submitted in English.

Cardiff University is a signatory to the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA), which means that in hiring and promotion decisions we will evaluate applicants on the quality of their research, not publication metrics or the identity of the journal in which the research is published. More information is available at:  Responsible research assessment - Research - Cardiff University
Job Description
To conduct research within trace metal geochemistry (palaeoclimate) and contribute to the overall research performance of the School and University, carrying out research leading to the publishing of high-quality research. To pursue excellence in research and to inspire others to do the same.
Research

• To conduct research within trace metal geochemistry (palaeoclimate) and contribute to the overall research performance of the School and University by the production of measurable outputs including bidding for funding, publishing in national academic journals and conferences, and the recruitment and supervision of postgraduate research students. 
• To develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research
• To attend and or present at conferences/seminars at a local and national level as required
• To undertake administrative tasks associated with the research project, including the planning and organisation of the project and the implementation of procedures required to ensure accurate and timely reporting
• To prepare research ethics and research governance applications as appropriate
• To review and synthesise existing research literature within the field
• To participate in School research activities.
• To build and create networks both internally and externally to the university, to influence decisions,   explore future research requirements, and share research ideas for the benefit of research projects

Other

• To engage effectively with community groups, public sector organisations, professional institutions, other academic institutions etc., regionally and nationally  to conduct public engagement work, raise awareness of the School’s profile, cultivate strategically valuable alliances, and to pursue opportunities for collaboration across a range of activities. These activities are expected to contribute to the School and the enhancement of its regional and national profile.
• To undergo personal and professional development which will enhance performance
• Any other duties not included above, but consistent with the role.

Essential Criteria

Qualifications and Education

1. Postgraduate degree at PhD level in a related subject area or equivalent or relevant industrial experience

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

1. An established expertise and proven portfolio of research and/or relevant industrial experience within the following research fields:
   1. 1. Trace metal geochemistry, including analysis of benthic foraminifera by sector field ICP-MS
      2. Palaeoclimate and palaeoceanography

 

1. Knowledge of current status of research in benthic foraminiferal palaeothermometry
2. Proven track record of publishing in international journals
3. Proven ability to be successful in competitive research funding

Communication and Team Working

1. Proven ability in effective and persuasive communication
2. Ability to supervise the work of others to focus team efforts and motivate individuals
3. Proven ability to plan, perform, and evaluate public engagement projects

Other

1. Proven ability to demonstrate creativity, innovation and team-working within work
2. Proven ability to work without close supervision

Desirable Criteria

1. Evidence of ability to participate in and develop both internal and external networks and utilise them to enhance the research activities of the School.