Postdoctoral Career Development Fellow

The Marine Biological Association

Hours: 37 hours per week

MBA scientists are addressing the most important questions facing our marine environment through a diverse programme of fundamental and applied research (www.mba.ac.uk ). A core part of the MBA science programme is the development opportunity and support for outstanding postdoctoral-level researchers to become independent research group leaders. We are seeking to appoint a new MBA Postdoctoral Career Development Fellow to develop an independent research group in an area of marine biology that will complement our science programme. The primary focus of the MBA Postdoctoral Career Development Fellow will be to secure external fellowship funding (e.g. Royal Society URF, UKRI FLF).

The MBA Postdoctoral Career Development Fellowship offers the flexibility and time for dedicated proposal writing, networking and professional development activities. We will provide strategic mentorship that will help guide the person to research independence, encouraging them to define their own research niche. There will be assistance in the development of funding proposals, including providing feedback on externally funded fellowship applications, grant proposals and publications to strengthen their competitiveness. Research and professional development, including facilitation of collaborations with relevant researchers, institutions or other partners, will be part of the fellowship. We will encourage and assist skill-building, including leadership training, project management, teaching and communication. Visibility of the Fellow will be promoted including engaging in outreach.

Applicants should have an excellent track record of research and publications commensurate with their career stage. They should have a clear ambition to establish a research group at the MBA through obtaining competitive research funding. The MBA offers excellent research facilities, including seawater aquaria, Continuous Plankton Recorder data and platform, advanced bioimaging and cell/molecular laboratories, and provides access to, culture facilities, a research vessel and associated field equipment. The appointment will be for 2 years with a performance review at 1 year. Longer-term career options may also be considered at the MBA, including via a joint university position, dependent on performance.

Salary and benefits

• Salary based on experience.
• 30 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays.
• 3 Privilege Days given by the MBA (used during festive closure week).
• Pension scheme – the MBA will contribute 10% of basic salary into a defined contribution scheme with staff making a 3% minimum contribution. The MBA will match additional employee contributions up to an additional 5%.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• Cycle to work scheme and electronic vehicle lease scheme.
• Low-cost bookable parking on site.

For more information on the role please see the Job Description

Equal Opportunities

We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates and seek talented people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives in order to enhance all that we do.

How to apply

Please email recruitment@mba.ac.uk quoting reference 0925PCDF. You will need to provide the following to apply:

1. Covering letter that summarises your previous and most relevant experience and explains how and why this makes you right for the role (1 page max.). The covering letter should include confirmation of your right to live and work in the UK*. Please include your date of birth along with Share Code where required.
2. CV of education and employment history along with details of two referees (one must be your current employer) (3 pages max.). References will not be sought in advance.
3. Research statement (4 pages max.). See below for further information.
4. List of key outputs. See below for further information.

Your application will not be considered without this information.

* Sponsorship is available for this position.  Non UK applicants can apply.

For further information, please contact Professor Michael Cunliffe micnli@MBA.ac.uk

Interviews will take place week commencing 10 November at the MBA in Plymouth.

Further information on required application documents:

Research statement (4 pages max.) Arial or similar, minimum 11 font size. Figures/diagrams can be included. The Research Statement should be a compelling narrative that highlights past achievements, current research focus, with a strategic vision for future work at the MBA and how in aligns with national and/or international research priorities. It should demonstrate alignment with MBA and/or disciplinary priorities. The statement should include:

1. Introduction (1 paragraph). Brief overview of your research area(s); Core themes or questions driving your work; Summary of your leadership role and impact.

2. Past Achievements (2–3 paragraphs). Highlight key accomplishments, such as major research contributions and their significance; key publications; grants and funding secured (amounts, sources, roles); collaborations; mentorship of students or other researchers; prizes/awards, patents, or other recognitions. Use metrics sparingly but effectively (e.g., citation counts, h-index, grant totals).

3. Current Research Focus (1–2 paragraphs). Describe ongoing projects and their goals. Highlight any novel methodologies or technologies used. Mention partnerships or networks that you are part of and roles.

4. Future Vision at the MBA (2–3 paragraphs). Outline your strategic research goals. Identify emerging trends or challenges your work will address. Describe plans for: Targeting new funding opportunities, enhancing impact (e.g., policy, industry, public engagement), emphasise leadership development and capacity building.

5. Alignment and Contribution to the MBA (1 paragraph). Show how your vision aligns with the MBA, UK and international research priorities. Highlight your commitment to: Equality Diversity and Inclusion; open science and/or responsible research practices.

List of key outputs (e.g. publications, grants, presentations) Arial or similar, minimum 11 font size. With publications, highlight those where lead/corresponding author. For publications with large number of authors state your role in the work. With grants include name of funder, total amount, amount to institution and your role (e.g. PI, Co-I, named researcher).

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