We wish to recruit a post-doctoral research fellow to investigate the processes controlling coral biomineralisation. The research fellow will study how calcification fluid chemistry and skeletal organic materials interact to control biomineralisation. She/he will work with Dr Nicola Allison and will make extended collaborative visits to the Schools of Chemistry and Physics at the University of York.

The post is full-time, fixed-term for 36 months, starting 1st April 2016 or as soon as possible thereafter.

You must have been (or soon will be) awarded a PhD in a relevant discipline with experience of biomineralisation. This is an interdisciplinary project combining elements of coral biology, geochemistry, protein chemistry and crystal growth and we will consider applicants from a range of earth, environmental, marine and biological backgrounds. The PDRA will receive full training in all the required techniques but experience of one or more of the following is desirable: skeletal geochemistry analysis (particularly ion microprobe), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC), scanning electron microscopy or inorganic carbonate precipitation expertise. The successful applicant will have a demonstrable ability to acquire rapidly additional skills.

For informal enquiries please email Dr Nicola Allison (na9@st-andrews.ac.uk).  

The University of St Andrews is committed to promoting equality of opportunity for all and has a series of University-wide diversity awards including the Athena SWAN Institutional Bronze Award, the European Commission HR Excellence in Research Award and the LGBT Charter (http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/hr/edi/diversityawards/).  We encourage applications from all members of society that are less frequently represented among our academic community at St Andrews, including women, people from ethnic minorities and people with disabilities. You can find out more about Equality and Diversity in the University at (http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/hr/edi/).  

Please quote ref:  AR1743SB

Closing Date:  2 March 2016 

Further Particulars:  AR1743SB FPs.pdf 

School of Geography & Geosciences
Department of Earth & Environmental Sciences
Salary: £31,656 per annum
Start: As soon as possible
Fixed term for 36 months