The British Geological Survey (BGS), founded in 1835, is part of the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), and is the world's longest-established national geological survey and the UK's premier centre for earth science information and expertise. A vacancy has arisen for a Stable Isotope Apprentice for two years at our headquarters in Keyworth.

You will be fully involved with the analysis of carbon and oxygen isotopes in palaeoclimate/palaeoceanography research using both vacuum and on-line preparation systems. You will also be required to prepare carbonates/organics/diatoms ready for isotope extraction methods, mainly wet chemistry, filtering, sieving, picking, including high precision weighing. In addition you will liaise with the scientific community and write research proposals for future post doctoral funding and write scientific papers in collaboration with NIGL staff/scientific community.

Qualified to at least PhD level in an Environmental Science-based subject, you must be able to demonstrate an interest in research applications of light element stable isotope techniques in geochemistry with some diversity in applications in environmental/geological science. In addition you must have knowledge/interest of isotope analytical equipment/mass spectrometry.

You must also be proficient in the use of MS Office and similar software and must have good oral communication skills and demonstrate a potential to produce publications.

Depending on qualifications and experience, starting salary for the role will be £19,740 per annum to £23,390 per annum. Working hours will be 37 per week excluding lunch breaks. A generous benefits package is also offered, including a company pension scheme, childcare voucher scheme, 30 days annual leave plus 10.5 days public and privilege holidays.

Applications are handled by the RCUK Shared Services Centre; to apply please visit our job board at http://www.topcareer.jobs/ and submit your up-to-date C.V. and covering letter, which clearly outlines why you are applying for this post and how you meet the criteria described in this advertisement. Applicants who would like to receive this advert in an alternative format (e.g. large print, Braille, audio or hard copy), or who are unable to apply online should contact us by telephone on 01793 867003, Please quote reference number IRC100793.

Closing date for receipt of application forms is 1 August 2013.

The Natural Environment Research Council is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. People with disabilities and those from ethnic minorities are currently under-represented and their applications are particularly welcome. The British Geological Survey is an Investors in People organisation. There is a guaranteed Interview Scheme for suitable candidates with disabilities.