Research Fellow, Civil, Maritime & Environmental Engineering

Southampton, England, United Kingdom

5/31/2025

We are seeking a motivated and talented Research Fellow to join our dynamic team working at the forefront of biofilm engineering. This position is part of the BBSRC-funded Environmental Biotechnology Innovation Centre (EBIC), https://ebicentre.co.uk, focusing on the application of engineered biofilms for the enhanced removal of emerging and recalcitrant pollutants from wastewater. A solid foundation in fundamental biofilm research, microbial community assembly and manipulation, and biofilm reactor operation is essential. Experience in metabolic engineering is desirable.

The successful candidate will be based in the Environmental Lab at the University of Southampton, with opportunities to collaborate with leading researchers across multiple institutions within EBIC. The research will be primarily experimental, involving the assembly and/or manipulation of microbial communities to create and enhance biofilm functions for more efficient bioremediation and wastewater treatment.

Essential Requirements

We are looking for a candidate who meets the following essential criteria:

• A PhD (or be close to completion*) in Biotechnology, Engineering, Microbiology, or a related field or equivalent experience/qualification
• Demonstrated expertise and hands-on experience in environmental biotechnology, microbial community engineering, bioreactor operation, and microbial mechanism studies.
• A strong track record of experimental research and practical laboratory skills.
• A publication record in high-quality, peer-reviewed journals appropriate to your career stage.
  
  

The Following Knowledge, Skills & Experience Is Desirable

• PhD in Environmental Biotechnology
• Experience in carrying out biofilm reactor operation
• Knowledge of biological processes for wastewater treatment especially about emerging/recalcitrant pollutants
• Experience in bioinformatics analysis
• Experience in the strain isolation and cultivation of pure cultures
• Applicants who are about to submit their PhD thesis or are awaiting their viva are welcome to apply.
  
  

Applications for Research Fellow positions will be considered from candidates who are working towards or nearing completion of a relevant PhD qualification. The title of Research Technician will be applied upon successful completion of the PhD. Prior to the qualification being awarded the title of Senior Research Assistant will be given.

To be considered at the shortlisting stage, please ensure your application clearly demonstrates how you meet the essential (and, where applicable, desirable) criteria.

Should you require any further details on the role please contact: Dr Yongqiang Liu – [email protected]

Join us in advancing the field of environmental biotechnology through innovative research in biofilm engineering.