Research Officer in Environmental Sciences - Job Opportunity at Universiteit Utrecht

Utrecht, Netherlands
Full-time
Mid-level
Posted: March 20, 2025
On-site
EUR 42,444 - 58,320 per year

Benefits

Comprehensive pension scheme with employer contribution
16.3% additional compensation through holiday (8%) and year-end bonuses (8.3%)
Flexible working arrangements with 28-32 hour options
Professional development support and training programs
Parental leave benefits above statutory requirements
Sports and cultural activities access
IT product discounts
Terms of Employment Options Model for customized benefits

Key Responsibilities

Lead laboratory and field research support operations for environmental and ecological studies
Develop and maintain research protocols for environmental sampling and analysis
Provide expert guidance to scientists and students on research methodologies
Conduct complex analytical procedures including nutrient extraction and plant trait measurements
Manage greenhouse experimental operations and coordinate with botanical gardens
Oversee field equipment maintenance and logistics
Drive method development for environmental sciences research
Serve as technical interface between GeoLab and Copernicus Institute

Requirements

Education

HBO level or Master's degree in ecology or environmental sciences

Experience

Minimum 3 years of work experience in research or research support

Required Skills

Laboratory techniques expertise (sample preparation, soil extractions, elemental analyses) Mass spectrometry and spectrophotometric analysis experience Chemical compound analysis capabilities Plant identification and trait measurement knowledge Strong communication and organizational abilities English language proficiency Dutch language proficiency (or willingness to learn) Project management capabilities Team collaboration skills
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Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

Growing emphasis on sustainability research is driving increased demand for environmental science technical expertise Integration of advanced analytical techniques with field research is becoming standard in environmental studies Rising focus on ecosystem restoration and biodiversity conservation creating new research opportunities Increased funding for sustainability initiatives in academic institutions

Salary Evaluation

The offered salary range is competitive for academic research support roles in the Netherlands, aligning with similar positions at other major European universities

Role Significance

Typically part of a 5-10 person laboratory team, supporting 20-30 researchers and students
Mid-level technical leadership position with significant operational autonomy and research support responsibilities

Key Projects

Environmental impact assessment studies Biodiversity monitoring programs Ecosystem restoration research Sustainable land use investigations Water quality analysis projects

Success Factors

Strong technical expertise combined with effective communication skills Ability to balance multiple research support requests while maintaining quality standards Proactive approach to method development and protocol optimization Strong project management capabilities with attention to detail Collaborative mindset with focus on supporting scientific advancement

Market Demand

High demand with stable growth trajectory due to expanding environmental research sector and increasing focus on sustainability science

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Advanced laboratory analysis techniques for environmental samples Research protocol development and optimization Project management and stakeholder communication Technical guidance and training capabilities

Beneficial Skills

Data analysis and interpretation skills Greenhouse experiment management Field research methodology expertise Environmental monitoring techniques

Unique Aspects

Integration of laboratory and field research support responsibilities
Direct involvement in sustainability-focused research programs
Opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge environmental science research
International academic environment with strong professional development support

Career Growth

2-4 years in role before advancement opportunities, depending on performance and organizational growth

Potential Next Roles

Laboratory Manager Research Facility Director Senior Research Officer Technical Operations Manager Research Project Manager

Company Overview

Universiteit Utrecht

Utrecht University is one of the Netherlands' leading research institutions with a strong focus on sustainability and environmental sciences

Top-tier academic institution with excellent research reputation and strong international collaborations
Major employer in Utrecht region with significant influence in European academic research
Collaborative academic environment with strong focus on innovation and sustainability
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