Ocean Career: UU Coastal Geomorphology Research Associate

Ulster University School of Geography and Environmental Sciences has two Research Associate Coastal Geomorphology posts open. The recently awarded £9M C-MAP project (Coastal Monitoring and Adaptation Planning) has an ambitious program of work which aims to develop new and sustainable approaches to managing coastal and marine environments in Northern Ireland and the border counties of the Irish Republic. The primary focus of the work at Ulster University is in the monitoring and recording coastal change on rock and mobile (sandy) coasts.

Reporting to the PI, we are seeking two experienced researchers with demonstrable understanding of physical processes of change on sandy and rocky coasts, respectively. As part of a dedicated team of field and lab workers, the post holders will be responsible for measuring and monitoring coastal geomorphological change using a variety of field techniques, storing and disseminating the data and analyzing and interpreting patterns of change. They will also participate in public engagement activities including citizen science training and dissemination of research findings.

Main Duties

  • Design and undertake field surveys of coastal sites in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
  • Collect, process and analyze coastal morphological measurements, maintaining appropriate records.
  • Input and analysis of data using relevant methods.
  • Prepare and submit manuscripts for publication in high impact referred journals.
  • Attend project meetings and provide progress reports and updates to project collaborators.
  • Liaise with the Principal Investigator and other researchers on scientific, technical and financial aspects of the project.
  • Engage and support Education and Public Engagement (EPE) activities.
  • Support the research team at UU to deliver research project outcomes in a timely manner.
  • Any other duties commensurate with the grade and nature of the role.

Essential Selection Criteria

Education and Professional Qualifications

  • A degree or equivalent qualification in physical geography, physical oceanography, geology, or a related Earth science discipline.
  • Hold a Ph.D. (or near completion with thesis submitted) in coastal geomorphology of sandy or rocky coasts.

Previous Experience/ Training

  • Relevant postgraduate research experience in coastal geomorphology.
  • Experience of direct application of appropriate field survey methodologies in coastal environments (e.g. GPS, Lidar, UAV).
  • Experience in the use of GIS to collate and analyze physical data.


Salary range: £33,020 – £36,654 per annum

Application deadline: November 9, 2025

Learn more about this opportunity and how to apply.

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