Rothera Ocean Scientist

UKRI; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 31,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

A research institution in Antarctica seeking an Ocean Scientist for a 20-month fixed-term role. The position entails conducting comprehensive environmental monitoring and supporting scientific programmes. Applicants should have a strong SCUBA diving background, experience with marine data collection, and relevant academic qualifications. The ability to adapt to harsh Antarctic conditions and familiarity with lab equipment are essential. This exciting opportunity combines research and adventure in a unique setting.

Benefits

Diversity and inclusion policy

Disability confident employer

Opportunity for personal research projects

Qualifications

• At least 80 logged dives, including 40 cold-water dives < 12 °C.
• FDA SCUBA Part IV or equivalent.
• Medical fitness to work under Antarctic conditions.

Responsibilities

• Maintenance of aquaria for live specimens.
• Conduct regular seawater sampling.
• Run year-round time series programmes.

Skills

Experienced SCUBA diver

Knowledge of small boat handling

Ability to work in a team

Proficient in written and spoken English

Education

BSc 2:1

Tools

Word

Excel

Job description

British Antarctic Survey
Reference: BAS 26/07
Contract type: Antarctic Employment Pool - Fixed‑Term Appointment - 20 months
Location: Rothera Research Station
Salary: AEP B1A £31,183 per annum (pro rata)
Closing date: 1 st March 2026, 23:55
Interview Date: w/c 20 th April 2026 and assessments in late April/Early May 2026

Duties

• Maintenance of aquaria
  Small flow-through aquaria enabling holding of live specimens. These need regular maintenance, back‑flushing, logging of temperatures and prevention of excess ice build up.
• CTD time series and sea water sampling
  Regular seawater samples will be taken from a site close to the research station as part of a long running programme looking at seasonal patterns and year to year variation in temperature, chlorophyll and nutrient concentration. Samples are taken by water bottle from a small workboat summer or through holes cut in the fast-ice in winter. They are analysed in a small chemistry lab on base. In addition, there is a regular profile taken with CTD (conductivity, temperature, depth) probe to 500 metres. These data are important for detecting changes and feedbacks in the physical and biological oceanographic systems, and support work by visiting scientists who take extra water samples for specific projects.
• Annual SCUBA-based survey
  Survey of a series of markers from 5‑25 m depth adjacent to the station in South Cove. Recording identity of markers hit by icebergs and replacing these with new markers. Photography of each grid square. Monitoring, maintenance and switch over of memory cards on a remote camera at Badger Buttress (photographs calving and iceberg transits around Sheldon glacier).
• Ice observations
  Regular measurements of the extent, thickness and type of ice essential for interpreting the data from the water sampling and sediment trapping programmes. This long‑term data set is of great importance.
• Support of other science programmes
  The main role of the Ocean Scientist is to run the year-round time series programmes. There are also summer visits by marine biologists and oceanographers to Rothera, who require assistance either within the laboratory or for field work, including recovery of ocean gliders and dive support.
• Collection of material for UK scientists
  Specimens are collected whenever possible while diving or from the shore. Live material is transported to Cambridge in a refrigerated aquarium, while preserved material is shipped as required.
• Biological monitoring
  In partnership with the marine biologist undertake a comprehensive programme of biological monitoring through SCUBA diving, serial documentation of settlement onto experimental slate panels and reproductive activity.
• Seabird and marine mammal work
  Small amount of regular observation and census work on seabirds and marine mammals.
• Personal projects
  An opportunity to undertake a small individual research project that matches the overall programme of research at Rothera, but not of sufficient scale for a higher degree.

Station Duties

As a member of a small wintering team (~20 personnel) you will be expected to take a share of station duties (cooking, cleaning, night watch etc).

Skills, Qualifications and Experience

• BSc 2:1
• Experienced SCUBA diver (CMAS 3* equivalent, minimum 80 logged dives, including 40 cold-water dives <12 °C / 25 drysuit dives)
• Knowledge of small boat handling
• Management of finite lab consumables and resources
• Proficient in written and spoken English
• Ability to work effectively in a small, tight-knit team for extended periods
• Medical fitness to work under Antarctic conditions (must pass a medical test)
• HSE SCUBA Part IV or equivalent
• Advanced European Scientific Diver certification
• 100+ logged dives, including 50 cold-water dives <12 °C / 25 drysuit dives and full-face mask experience
• RYA Powerboat Level 2 or above
• Experience in water chemistry
• Aquarium and/or animal husbandry experience
• Proficient with Word, Excel and spreadsheets

About the Employer and EDI

At UKRI, we believe that everyone has a right to be treated with dignity and respect, and to be provided with equal opportunities. We value diversity of thought and experience and promote inclusive groups and communities. We are a Disability Confident Employer; reasonable accommodation will be provided to meet the needs of candidates with disabilities.

The role holder will be required to have the appropriate level of security screening/vetting required for the role. UKRI reserves the right to run or re‑run security clearance as required during the course of employment.

How to Apply

Online applications only are preferred for this role. Please submit a CV and covering letter that clearly outlines how you fulfil the criteria specified above along with your motivation. The job reference number should be included in the file name of each document. Failure to provide a covering letter may result in the application not being considered. Assessment will only be based on the content of your submitted covering letter and CV.