Plankton Analyst

The Marine Biological Association of the UK

The Marine Biological Association of the UK

IT
plymouth, uk · plymouth, uk
GBP 23,881-24,344 / year
Posted on Jun 5, 2025
Contract type
Open
Closing date
04 Jul 2025 11:59 PM
Location
Plymouth, PL1 2PB, UK
Salary
Grade 2 £23,881 to £24,344 (pro-rata), per annum depending on experience

Hours: Full-time (37 hours per week) and/or Part-time (from 18.5 hours per week) and job shares considered

Play a Key Role in Global Ocean Research

Do you have a passion for marine science and an eye for detail? The Marine Biological Association is offering the opportunity to join the world-renowned Continuous Plankton Recorder (CPR) Survey – the longest running and most geographically extensive marine biological survey in the world.

Since its inception, the CPR Survey has provided invaluable long-term monitoring data on plankton – the tiny, yet powerful organisms at the heart of the ocean’s food web. Long term data allow us to see changes in the marine community over time - our findings directly inform critical research into climate change, biodiversity, microplastics and sustainable fisheries across the globe.

About the Role

We are looking for Plankton Analysts to join our dedicated and supportive team at our historic Plymouth Laboratory. Following a comprehensive training programme in CPR and net-caught sample analysis, you will play a vital role in the microscopic identification and analysis of plankton samples collected from oceans worldwide.

While the focus is on sample analysis, we also encourage team members to broaden their expertise by contributing to reports, publications, training initiatives, taking part in public engagement and advancing taxonomy skills.

Why Join Us?

As part of our team, you will contribute to meaningful, globally relevant science that shapes marine policy and conservation. You will also enjoy a supportive, flexible working environment and a generous benefits package.

Salary and benefits

  • Salary based on experience
  • 30 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays (pro-rata)
  • 3 Privilege Days given by the MBA (used during festive closure week)
  • Sick pay
  • Pension scheme – the MBA will contribute 10% of basic salary into a defined contribution scheme with staff making a 3% minimum contribution. The MBA will match additional employee contributions up to an additional 5%
  • Flexible working arrangements (role dependant)
  • Cycle to work scheme and electronic vehicle lease scheme
  • Low-cost bookable parking on site

For more information on the role please see the Job Description

Who We're Looking For

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, especially those with:

A strong interest or background in marine biology, taxonomy, or environmental science.

Great attention to detail and a willingness to learn.

A collaborative spirit and a passion for contributing to high impact science.

Whether you are looking to build your career in marine science or bring your skills to a cause that matters, we would love to hear from you.

Equal Opportunities

We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates and seek talented people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives in order to enhance all that we do.

Be part of a legacy in ocean science. Help shape the future of our marine environment and apply today.

How To Apply

Please email recruitment@mba.ac.uk quoting reference 0625PADJ. You will need to provide three things to apply:

  1. Covering letter that outlines your previous and most relevant experience and explains how and why this makes you right for the role.
  2. CV of education and employment history along with details of two referees (one must be your current employer). References will not be sought in advance.
  3. Confirmation of your right to live and work in the UK*. Your application will not be considered without this information.

* Sponsorship is not available for this position.

For further information please contact:

Claire Taylor (Laboratory Manager) – cmta@mba.ac.uk

Martina Brunetta (Training Manager) – marbru@mba.ac.uk

Interviews will take place week commencing 21 July 2025

🌊 We're hiring Plankton Analysts
Join the world-renowned Continuous Plankton Recorder (CPR) Survey at the Marine Biological Association in Plymouth.

🔬 Help analyse marine samples from across the globe
🌍 Contribute to vital research on climate, biodiversity & more
🧠 Full training provided – ideal for early-career scientists or taxonomy enthusiasts
🕐 Flexible working (FT, PT, job share)
💰 Salary: £23,881 to £24,344 (pro rata) per annum + great benefits

👉 Apply now and be part of a team making a real impact on ocean science!
📩 recruitment@mba.ac.uk | Deadline: 4 July 2025

#MarineJobs #Plankton #MarineBiology #Taxonomy #PlymouthJobs #OceanScience #Hiring

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