Working with us
There are lots of ways to get involved with the Organic Research Centre. We look for trustees, partner organisations, postgraduate researchers and also farmers and businesses to take part in our research programmes. Find out how you can work with us.
Staff vacancies
Soil Science & Agronomy Post-Doctoral Research Associate
Salary range: £35,000 – £40,000 per annum depending on experience
REF: RES2401
Are you an experienced researcher with an interest in organic and agroecological systems? Are you committed to innovative, inclusive and trans-disciplinary research approaches based on systems thinking? Are you a pragmatic, creative and forward-thinking scientist ready to lead participatory research and experimentation with real farms and businesses? Then, this might be the opportunity for you.
ORC seeks to appoint a Soil Science and Agronomy Post-Doctoral Research Associate (PDRA) on a 2-year fixed term contract with the possibility of extension. The role will be responsible for the timely management and delivery of results from two newly funded projects at the Organic Research Centre.
The first of these projects is focused on the development of novel organic waste management strategies to build healthy soils and healthy crops. The PDRA will work with a network of composting practitioners to test the impacts of their composting methods on a range of agronomic, ecological and economic parameters. Evidence will be used to produce advice and guidance on how to best manage organic materials for the best agronomic, environmental and economic outcomes.
The second project is focused on strategies to reduce the use of N fertilisers on intensively managed grass on dairy farms. Strategies will be co-created with the dairy farmers and trialled on farms.
Both projects require expertise in nutrient cycling in agricultural soils, an understanding of how organic wastes and fertilisers are managed and used on UK farms; experience with soil C and N models is desirable, as is an understanding of the use of carbon footprinting methods on UK farms. Strong data analysis and communication skills are essential. Applicants need to be familiar with UK farming systems and comfortable working in agricultural environments.
We are looking to recruit the right candidate for this pivotal role, which is full-time and home-based. Download the application pack (Zip folder) or individual components below.
The closing date for applications is 22nd November 2024, however applications maybe closed early if sufficient quality applications are received. Initial interviews will be held online on 27th November 2024.
Internships
No internships currently available.
Postgraduate research
Opportunities may exist for MSc and PhD research projects linked to our current research areas. Contact the relevant team leader for further information.
Participatory research
Much of our research involves participatory engagement of farmers, producers and other businesses. We currently have over 50 businesses working with us and have now established a Participatory Research Network to develop this work.
If you are a producer, farmer, processor or other business interested in getting involved with research, please get in touch.
Partner organisations
ORC works collaboratively on projects and in its dissemination of results with a number of UK and European partners. If you are interested in partnering with us, please do get in touch.
