Senior Research Development Chemist

The UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology is seeking a Senior Research Development Chemist specializing in stable isotopes for their Lancaster location. The role involves leading stable isotope analysis, collaborating on research projects, and developing grant proposals. Candidates should have a strong background in environmental applications and a proactive, innovative mindset. The position is permanent and offers a salary range of £50,447 - £53,535, with options for full or part-time work.
Salary - £50,447 - £53,535

Permanent, full or part-time (>0.8 FTE)

We reserve the right to close this advert early if we find the right candidate, so we encourage you to apply early.




About UKCEH

UKCEH is a leading independent research institute with over 600 scientists studying how the natural world works. We take a connected approach across land, water and air to understand environmental systems and build resilience for people and the planet.




About This Role




We have an exciting opportunity for a Research Chemist specialising in light stable isotopes (C, H, N, O & S) to lead the stable isotope analysis in the Analytical Chemistry team in Lancaster, within the acclaimed Environmental Pressures and Responses Group. This multidisciplinary team is at the forefront of understanding how pollution, land-use change, and climate pressures affect ecosystems. Working across air, land, and water, we generate high-quality evidence that directly informs action on environmental change.




We are seeking a driven and experienced stable isotope specialist with strong, published, expertise in environmental applications who is motivated by both scientific excellence and real-world impact. In this role, you will work in close collaboration with colleagues across UKCEH and the wider scientific community, helping to identify emerging research challenges and shaping compelling ideas that attract funding. We are particularly keen to hear from candidates who are excited by the funding and partnership-building aspects of research. You will enjoy seeking out opportunities for collaboration, developing research ideas, writing grant applications, and responding to tenders. Whether through advancing laboratory methodologies, building on existing professional networks, or generating fundable ideas rooted in PhD-level or applied research, you will be resourceful, investigative, and motivated to generate income and impact.




You will thrive in this role if you are ideas-driven, collaborative, and proactive, with a genuine curiosity for solving complex scientific problems. Comfortable working across multiple projects, you will bring a high level of accuracy, attention to detail, and personal ownership, alongside the creativity to develop and implement novel analytical approaches and workflows. Innovation is actively encouraged, and your contributions will directly influence the direction and capability of the team.




Our isotope laboratory has recently benefited from major investment in state-of-the-art instrumentation, significantly enhancing our analytical capabilities. The lab is equipped for a wide range of isotopic analyses, including bulk material analysis (EA-IRMS), trace gas detection (Precon-IRMS), dissolved organic carbon and nitrogen (Iso-TOC), and compound-specific analysis (GC-C-IRMS). We also use advanced cavity ring-down spectroscopy for precise measurement of hydrogen and oxygen isotopes in water, vegetation, and other samples – providing a powerful platform for cutting-edge, cross-disciplinary research.




Your main responsibilities will include:

Lead and develop the Stable Isotope Facility, raising its profile within UKCEH and the wider research community, while identifying opportunities to expand isotope applications into new sectors.Generate income through grant applications, research bids and commercial tenders, building new scientific and business opportunities.Drive the development, validation and implementation of innovative analytical methods, ensuring robust SOPs and high-quality scientific standards.Deliver and support high-impact scientific outputs, contributing analytical expertise to publications, reports, presentations and other knowledge products.Oversee laboratory operations, ensuring data quality, ISO 17025 compliance, COSHH requirements, internal audits, equipment development and safe facility management.Line manage, mentor and develop laboratory staff, fostering technical excellence, collaboration, resilience and a high-performance culture.


We’re looking for a passionate and forward-thinking research chemist to help keep our laboratories and research at the forefront of environmental science. You’ll bring strong skills in method innovation, data analysis, scientific communication, and the preparation of reports, publications, and project proposals. Just as importantly, we’re seeking someone who is committed to their own professional development and eager to support and mentor others, whether that’s managing team members or guiding students, as we continue to build a collaborative and forward-looking research environment.




What we’re looking for:

PhD in Environmental Chemistry, or equivalent relevant qualification and/or substantial professional experience in a related laboratory environment.A strong understanding of fundamental ecological and/or environmental chemistry principles, particularly as they relate to the behaviour and analysis of stable isotopesProven experience in isotopic analyses with working knowledge of stable isotope analytical instruments (especially IRMS and incl. method development and optimisation)Specialist knowledge of method development for isotopic analysis in diverse matricesEstablished track record of publishing in peer-reviewed journals and delivering impactful presentations at scientific conferencesDemonstrable success in securing research funding through competitive bids


Working at UKCEH is genuinely rewarding

You’ll be joining a leading independent, not-for-profit research institute, where your work will have real impact. Our science helps people and the environment to prosper and informs decisions that benefit society as a whole. We’re proud to be custodians of over 60 years of environmental data, and just as proud of the people behind it. You’ll be supported to develop your career, grow your skills and thrive in a collaborative, purpose-driven environment.




What we offer

At UKCEH, we recognise your dedication and provide a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you both at work and at home. When you join us, you’ll benefit from:




Generous annual leave - 27 days (rising to 29 days after 5 years) +3 for Christmas closure10% employer pension contributionFinancial protection through life assurance and income protectionEnhanced family-friendly policiesFlexible and hybrid working options (depending on your role)Lifestyle perks including dental, gym, retail and cycling discountsA commitment to wellbeing, supported by a range of internal initiativesEmployee Assistance Programme and health benefits, including 24/7 support with remote GP access, mental health, physiotherapy and lifestyle servicesPeer recognition and rewards that celebrate your contributionSalary sacrifice agreement benefits including Electric & Plug-in Hybrid vehicle and Cycle2Work schemesInterest-free annual travel season ticket loans (terms apply)


Our commitment to inclusion

At UKCEH, we believe everyone should feel welcome and able to be themselves at work. We warmly encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences and identities. As a Disability Confident employer, we’re happy to support you with any adjustments you may need throughout the recruitment process.




Our approach to AI and applications

We understand that candidates may use AI tools to support their application. We encourage you to ensure your submission reflects your own experience, skills and suitability for the role. Every application that meets the essential criteria will be reviewed by our recruitment panel.




A note on sponsorship

Unfortunately, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role and this does not qualify for endorsement to support a Global Talent Visa application. If you are considering pursuing self-sponsorship, please indicate this in your application so we can take it into account during the recruitment process.