The Loughborough University is recruiting a postdoctoral research associate for the second phase of the UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship project to lead fieldwork, ecological experiments, and contribute to interdisciplinary river science. 

Project description

The UKRI-funded project titled “Stuck in the mud: addressing the fine sediment conundrum with multiscale and interdisciplinary approaches to support global freshwater biodiversity”,  aims to develop a mechanistic understanding on how environmental controls drive fine sediment impacts for freshwater biota. Fine sediment deposition (particles <2 mm) is described as a major anthropogenic threat to global freshwater biodiversity, and the aim is to identify, examine, and quantify the main abiotic and biotic controls affecting the ecological effects of instream sedimentation. This interdisciplinary work sits at the interface of freshwater ecology, fluvial geomorphology, hydrology and sedimentology, engaging academic and stakeholder partners in the UK and internationally.

You will join the team led by Dr. Kate Mathers at Loughborough University’s Department of Geography and Environment, a top‑ranked department with world‑class river science, sediment and ecology laboratories.

Your role

You will lead several mini‑work packages within the project, including:

• Monthly aquatic ecology fieldwork in streams around Loughborough.
• Laboratory processing and identification of macroinvertebrates.
• Design and execution of ecological experiments.
• Day‑to‑day project management and coordination with research assistants.
• Data analysis and dissemination of results (manuscripts, conferences).

What we are looking for

• PhD (or close to submission) in ecology, river science, or a closely related field.
• Practical experience in aquatic ecology fieldwork (macroinvertebrate sampling/handling).
• Passion for river systems, freshwater biodiversity and macroinvertebrates.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team, with an interest in river management and environmental policy.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.

Desirable but not essential: experience with ecological experiments, macroinvertebrate identification, and project management.

The department particularly encourages applications from under‑represented groups in higher education, including racialised minorities, disabled and neurodivergent people.

Key details

• Salary: £35,608 (Specialist and Supporting Academic Research grade 6) + annual pay award.
• Contract: Full‑time, fixed‑term for 18 months.
• Start date: 13th July 2026 (or as soon as possible thereafter).
• Location: Loughborough University (East Midlands campus) with hybrid/on‑site options. Regular local fieldwork required.

How to apply

Submit your application via the Loughborough University jobs portal (job reference REQ260262).
For full details and the online application form, visit:
https://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/DRI632/research-associate-in-river-science

Closing date: 25th May 2026
Interview date: week commencing 22nd June 2026

Contact for informal enquiries

Dr. Kate Mathers (Principal Investigator)
Email: k.mathers@lboro.ac.uk