Post-Doctoral Research Assistant (PDRA) in Functional Biodiversity(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Role

The University of Reading invites applications for a Post-Doctoral Research Assistant to join the LEMONTREE (Land Ecosystem Models based On New Theory, observations and Experiments) project. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in functional biodiversity, linking ecological theory with practical data analysis and modelling.

The successful candidate will be primarily responsible for:

• Statistical analysis of plant trait datasets to understand functional biodiversity patterns.
• Developing a theoretical framework connecting functional trait diversity to environmental constraints.
• Implementing and optimising an eco-evolutionary optimality (EEO) modelling framework.
• Evaluating model performance using both field and laboratory experimental data.
• Collaborating with project teams at University of Reading, Imperial College London, and Tsinghua University.
• Engaging with the wider LEMONTREE project team to ensure integration of research outputs.

This role is ideal for candidates who enjoy independent research within a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment and who are motivated by both theoretical and applied ecological challenges.

Person Specification

Essential Qualifications & Skills

• PhD in Environmental Science, Ecology, or a closely related discipline by the start date.
• Strong knowledge of functional traits and biodiversity, including environmental drivers.
• Understanding of eco-evolutionary optimality (EEO) concepts and modelling approaches.
• Advanced programming skills (R, Python, MATLAB, or similar).
• Familiarity with relevant ecological and environmental datasets for model validation.
• Demonstrated research experience with publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Strong initiative with excellent project management, organisation, and prioritisation skills.

Desirable Attributes

• Experience with trait-based ecosystem modelling.
• Collaborative experience across multi-institutional research projects.
• Knowledge of advanced statistical methods for ecological datasets.

Employment Details

• Contract: Fixed Term (up to 20 months)
• Salary: £36,636 per annum
• Hours: Full-Time (1.0 FTE)
• Start Date: As soon as possible after appointment

Sponsorship

Applicants requiring visa sponsorship may be eligible under the Skilled Worker Route. Candidates should review the UK Visas & Immigration Skilled Worker guidance
to ensure eligibility before applying.

Diversity & Inclusion

The University of Reading is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce, supporting gender equality through the Athena SWAN Charter, race equality via the Race Equality Charter, and LGBT+ inclusion. We are also a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2).

Applications for job-share, part-time, and flexible working arrangements are welcome and will be considered in line with business needs.

This role provides an outstanding opportunity to advance your research career in functional biodiversity and ecosystem modelling while contributing to a highly collaborative, multi-institutional project.