**Please note this is an unpaid position

START DATE: JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

Are you an early career researcher (ECR) in marine science based at a UK institution? Are you passionate about shaping the future of marine sampling and ensuring it meets the needs of the research community?

We are seeking enthusiastic ECRs to join a newly established Sampling Working Group which will report to the Marine Facilities Advisory Board (MFAB).

The Marine Facilities Advisory Board (MFAB) advises the National Oceanography Centre on marine facilities and services, including the Natural Environment Research Council’s National Marine Equipment Pool (NMEP).

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to national strategy, gain experience in science governance, and collaborate with leading scientists and technical experts across the UK.

The National Marine Sampling Working Group will play a key role in:

Reviewing and advising on the suitability of Nation Marine Equipment Pool sampling equipment for current and future science needs.

Strengthening links between sampling protocols and emerging international frameworks, including the BBNJ (Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction) Agreement.

Representing the voice of the research community in national marine facilities planning.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Eligibility Criteria (Essential)

Early Career Status: Typically, within 10 years of completing a PhD (adjusted for career breaks).
Affiliation: Based at a UK research institution or organization involved in marine science.
Research Area: Active involvement in marine science, particularly with relevance to marine sampling, technology, or fieldwork.

Experience & Skills (Desirable)

Fieldwork Experience: Participation in or planning of marine sampling campaigns (e.g., cruises, moorings, autonomous platforms).
Technical Knowledge: Familiarity with sampling equipment, data collection protocols, or marine instrumentation.
Collaborative Work: Experience working in multidisciplinary or cross-institutional teams.

Motivation & Contribution

Statement of Interest: Clear articulation of why you want to join the working group and what you hope to contribute.
Commitment to engagement: Willingness to actively participate in meetings, discussions, and working group activities.
Vision: Ideas for improving or innovating marine sampling practices or increasing ECR involvement in marine infrastructure planning.

COMMITMENT

Two virtual meetings per year, for up to two hours.
Preparation and reading time for meetings.
Term is two years, with the option to renew.

EXPENSES

Positions of member on this working group is unremunerated. Meetings will be conducted on-line.

HOW TO APPLY:

Please click on 'Apply' and upload a recent CV
Please also upload an expression of interest (EOI) letter (maximum two pages) outlining what you hope to contribute to the working group and your vision for its role in the UK marine science community
Please declare any potential conflicts of interest on your EOI letter - NOC policy available on request from the MFAB Secretary (jfpea@noc.ac.uk)

Selection of members will be made by a sub-group from MFAB which will include the Curator of the British Ocean Sediment Core Research Facility.

DIVERSITY, EQUALITY AND INCLUSION

We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We actively encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply for this position, as we strive to create a supportive and equitable environment where all voices are valued and heard.

Those seeking to join this working group will be considered solely on their qualifications, skills, and experience, without regard to gender, gender identity, age, race, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, relationship status, family status (including pregnancy / maternity leave) or any other protected characteristic.

NOC is an Investors in People organisation.

Geographic Diversity: We are seeking candidates from different regions and institutions across the UK.

Disciplinary Diversity: Inclusion of researchers from various subfields (e.g., physical oceanography, biogeochemistry, marine biology).

QUESTIONS

If you’re interested in joining or would like to learn more, please contact

Dr Suzanne MacLachlan, Group Head of Scientific & Technical Specialist Group: s.maclachlan@noc.ac.uk

Marine Facilities Advisory Board (MFAB) National Marine Sampling Working Group