Are you passionate about aquatic ecology and keen to build deep taxonomic expertise in phytoplankton analysis? Do you value scientific rigour, quality data and work that directly informs environmental decision-making?
APEM Biolabs is looking for a Phytoplankton Laboratory Scientist to join our specialist team, delivering high-quality biological analysis for freshwater and marine environments across the UK. Our analysts play a critical role in assessing ecological health—supporting projects linked to the Water Framework Directive, Harmful Algal Blooms, bathing water quality, baseline surveys and pollution assessments. Our work supports government agencies, local authorities, consultancies and private stakeholders, helping protect and improve aquatic environments.
As a Phytoplankton Laboratory Scientist, you’ll analyse and process phytoplankton samples to APEM’s industry-leading standards. You’ll work within a supportive, quality-driven laboratory environment, with excellent opportunities to develop your taxonomic skills and progress towards specialist expertise. You’ll be supported to grow your knowledge across marine and freshwater phytoplankton, with opportunities to contribute to fieldwork, data interpretation and reporting as your experience develops.
What you’ll bring
Essential
- Previous experience of identifying phytoplankton from different habitats and regions of the UK.
- Ability to work to tight deadlines with attention to detail.
- An understanding of other types of biological analysis (such as zooplankton, macroinvertebrates or diatoms).
Desirable
- Extensive experience in the identification of phytoplankton to species level where possible.
- Previous experience of working under an Analytic Quality Control (AQC) system.
- Experience of training staff.
- Proven track record of participation in AQC systems such as the International Phytoplankton Intercomparison (IPI).
- An understanding of the Water Framework Directive methodologies.
You will be offered the chance to work on a variety of projects, many of our employees have worked on projects that have been of personal interest to them. We match this with a commitment to continuous development and learning to support your career. We also offer benefits to look after you, from private medical insurance for all employees, access to mental health first aiders and comprehensive income protection if you cannot work. We also offer superb flexible working options, balancing work with your life.
Next steps
We are focused on creating a diverse and inclusive team. If you can’t tick every box on our job description, then we are still keen to hear from you and are open to supporting your development. That may be working part time or supporting you to gain experience in a specific area – we are a growing company and are able to adapt roles to reflect individual skills.
If you think you have what it takes to join our fast-growing business, then please apply immediately on our website. All we need some basic information and your CV, we will review all applications quickly and will respond to all applications.