The University of Plymouth invites applications for the role of Lecturer in Soil Microbial Ecology or Soil Microbiology based within the interdisciplinary and impact-focused Centre for Research excellence in Intelligent and Sustainable Productive Systems (CRISPS). This post offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to our growing focus on soil health, particularly in the context of sustainable and regenerative agricultural systems in the UK’s rural Southwest.
As a Lecturer, you will contribute to CRISPS’ overarching aim to improve agricultural productivity while reducing environmental harm. Your expertise in soil microbial communities and their role in ecosystem services will complement our work on climate-resilient systems, resource-efficient practices, and biodiversity-rich landscapes.
This role directly supports CRISPS' Soil Health theme, which focuses on the microbial and biochemical processes that underpin nutrient cycling, plant-soil interactions, carbon sequestration, and agroecosystem sustainability.
CRISPS is a vibrant, interdisciplinary research centre addressing the environmental, social, and economic challenges of 21st-century agriculture. We work across scales — from soil microbiomes to supply chains — to shape systems that are productive, resilient, and regenerative. Our partnerships with farmers, land managers and owners, agri-tech innovators, conservation groups, and policymakers ensure that our research delivers real-world impact. Further details about CRISPS can be found at: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/research/sustainable-productive-systems
You will hold a PhD in Soil Microbial Ecology, Soil Microbiology, Environmental Microbiology, Agroecology, or a related discipline. You’ll have a developing or established research profile with evidence of publication and funding success, and a commitment to making a tangible difference through your work.
Essential expertise includes:
Experience in cross-sector collaboration, stakeholder engagement, and interdisciplinary research is highly valued.
Why Plymouth?
Join a research centre committed to shaping climate-resilient, ecologically sound food systems.
For more information on School of Biological and Marine Sciences please visit our dedicated webpage at https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/schools
Due to the nature of the role, unfortunately we are unable to accommodate working from home.
For an informal discussion to find out more about the role then please contact Jennifer Rowntree: by email at jennifer.rowntree@plymouth.ac.uk
The School of Biological and Marine Sciences holds a Bronze Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advance gender equality in higher education.
The University of Plymouth has a strong interdisciplinary research ethos which is supported by our two strategic Research Institutes; the Marine Institute and the Sustainable Earth Institute. As a member of our academic community, you’ll be expected to contribute to our recognised research strengths. Working holistically across the University, you will be challenged to innovate, collaborate and deliver impactful research contributions as part of a systems thinking approach to addressing today’s global challenges.
Application Process
Please apply online, demonstrating how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the knowledge, qualifications, training, and experience elements of the job description in your supporting statement.
Following the closing date of the vacancy, you will be notified on the outcome of your application in due course.
Anticipated Interview Date: Friday 23 January 2026
Our Offer
When joining us, you will receive:
A summary of our comprehensive benefits can be viewed here.
A relocation package may be available to the successful candidate, conditions apply.
Additional Information
The University of Plymouth is an inclusive community where everyone is welcomed regardless of their background. To find out more about our inclusive community initiatives, such as Athena Swan and the Race Equality Charter, please visit our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion webpages.