Research Assistant (Fixed Term)

University of Cambridge - Department of Geography

Placed On: 3rd February 2026

Closes: 1st March 2026

Job Ref: LC48708

Applications are invited for a one-year Research Assistant position in Palaeoecology as part of the UKRI-funded project Integrating past and present ecologies, and traditional knowledge for effective biodiversity management into the future (IPPET).

The successful candidate will be based in Cambridge and will join the Conservation Palaeoecology Lab, working under the guidance of Dr Matthew Adeleye. The post holder will also have opportunities to participate in a wide range of departmental activities, including the departmental "Climate and Environmental Dynamics" research group and seminars across the University.

Wetlands house the largest portion of carbon in the pedosphere and provide habitats for many unique species. However, they face significant threats from climate change and human impact. Effective management requires an understanding of how present ecologies and cultural values relate to the past, as well the different roles of climate and people have played in shaping wetlands over centuries-millennia. By working closely with land managers and incorporating local/traditional knowledge alongside palaeoecological and ecological methods, project IPPET will document detailed centennial-millennial ecological (vegetation, fire, carbon accumulation, hydrology) and cultural histories (Indigenous/traditional use) of wetlands and wetland-related ecosystems (e.g., swamp forests) in different world regions and reveal how humans may have shaped their response to climate in the past. Results will be contextualized to on-ground management needs.

The post holder will primarily assist in generating robust carbon and charcoal records for different wetland sites. The successful candidate will have some experience in: (1) loss-on-ignition and sample preparation for carbon and nitrogen analysis (2) fossil charcoal analysis. Additional related duties may be assigned as the need arises.

Applicants must hold a degree (or equivalent) in Earth Science or related discipline. A background in palaeoecology/palaeoenvironment, along with proficiency in computing platforms and quantitative skills are desirable. Candidates must be highly motivated, willing to learn, and demonstrate excellent time management, organisational, and communication skills, with the ability to work well as part of a team.

More details on the role, including responsibilities and person specifications, are available in the Further Particulars document below.

Fixed-term: Funding is available for 12 months in the first instance.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click 'Apply' above.

If you have any questions on the application process, please email Mrs Alessandra Uomo, HR Coordinator, at hr@geog.cam.ac.uk.

Informal enquiries should be directed to Dr Matthew Adeleye at ma2073@cam.ac.uk.

The closing date for applications is 1st March 2026.

Interviews are likely to be held during the week commencing 9th March 2026 or shortly thereafter.

Please quote reference LC48708 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.