Research Leader - Landscape Ecology and Ecosystem Science

We are seeking an outstanding ecologist or environmental scientist with expertise in spatial ecology, ecosystem science or ecological modelling to lead an ambitious programme of applied ecosystem research at RBG, Kew. You will develop and lead research that combines field ecology, spatial analysis, environmental monitoring and Earth observation to understand how ecosystems function and change, quantify ecosystem services, and develop approaches for their monitoring, restoration and management. You will integrate field observations, sensor networks, geospatial information and Earth observation to develop scalable approaches for ecosystem assessment, monitoring and management, producing practical tools and policy-relevant evidence whilst working with government, environmental bodies, academic institutions, conservation organisations and land managers. You will coordinate Kew's Living Laboratories Initiative, a key element of Kew's Science Strategy 2026-2030 and lead the development of research projects within it (see Initiative 4 of https://www.kew.org/science/our-science/publications-and-reports/science-reports/kew-science-strategy)

Based at Kew's Wakehurst site, which hosts the Living Laboratories Initiative and supports long-term ecological research and environmental monitoring, you will build an ambitious programme of research across Wakehurst, Kew's other sites and a growing network of partner landscapes. You will connect long-term ecological observation with landscape-scale evidence to deliver research with real-world impact, while securing statutory and philanthropic funding for a growing portfolio of research.

The role provides strategic and scientific leadership for applied ecosystem research at RBG, Kew, including research infrastructure and environmental data acquisition. You will lead and develop a multidisciplinary research team, supervise and mentor researchers and students, build strategic partnerships and networks, and contribute to the wider scientific leadership of Kew Wakehurst. You will also contribute to Kew's wider research programme through collaboration across disciplines and the use of Kew's unique collections, expertise and living landscapes.

More details

We are looking for an innovative and ambitious scientist seeking to develop their career as an independent researcher, leader and mentor. You will have a relevant PhD and significant post-qualification research experience, with a strong track record in research, funding and collaboration. We welcome applicants from backgrounds including landscape ecology, ecosystem science, biodiversity science, ecological modelling, spatial ecology or related environmental disciplines.

You will have an interest in teaching, outreach and impact, and a collaborative outlook extending beyond your own area of expertise to Kew's wider mission as a botanic garden.This is an exciting opportunity to shape a growing programme of research, build new partnerships and help turn long-term ecological evidence into practical action for ecosystems and the environment.

Please upload a copy of your research CV to support your application. This should include your publication and funding record, as well as any other relevant information to demonstrate your track record as a research scientist e.g. scientific honours and panel / committee memberships, PhD supervision etc.

This role is based at Wakehurst with the option of regular home working, subject to operational requirements.

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth.

We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably. We will achieve these goals by drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history.

Join us on our journey as protectors of the world's plants and fungi.

The salary for this position is £47,953 - £55,499 per annum, depending on skills and experience [Band E]

Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.

If you are interested in this position, please submit your application through the online portal, by clicking "Apply for this job".

At Kew, our strength lies in the diversity of our people and the insights they bring. When you join us, you will find an organisation that values your perspective and lived experience. You will receive support to achieve your full potential and access opportunities to develop and progress. Our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion is ongoing, shaped by the people who work here and the communities we serve. As a disability confident employer, we are breaking down barriers to be an inclusive workplace for everyone.

Whoever you are, and however you experience the world, there is a place for you to grow and belong at Kew.

No agencies please.

Job profile (attached PDF)

Job Profile
Senior Research Leader - Mycology - Job Profile Document v1 June 2021
Section 1: Job Description
Job Title: Research Leader - Landscape Ecology
and Ecosystem Science
Post No:
Band: E Job family: Science and Scientific Information
Directorate: Science Division/Dept: : Research / Ecosystem &
Conservation Science
No. of Direct Reports: 3 No. of Indirect Reports: TBD
Reports to (Position): Senior Research Leader (TBD)
Job Purpose:
To del iver RBG Kew's mission by:
Being an active researcher within a research team and delivering excellence in science; developing a research
group that address questions identified as P riorities in Kew's Science Strategy; working with other staff to deliver
the key objectives of these Priorities; and communicating Kew's science through a range of media.
Job Context:
Reporting to the Senior Research Leader, the post holder leads a research team of their own providing day- to-day
supervision for post-docs, PhD students, Future Leader Fellows. The post holder is responsible for their own grant-
funded research within the wider research programme overseen by a Senior Research Leader. He/she contributes
to the delivery of Kew's Science Strategy, and to the overall running of the Science Directorate as commensurate
within the grade of the post. This post also forms part of the Senior Leadership Team at Kew Wakehurst and is key
to ensuring active collaboration between Science and other Directorates'.
Accountabilities :
1. Develop research questions within a specific context, conduct individual research, analysing
detailed and complex qualitative and/or quantitative data from a variety of sources, and generate
original ideas by building on existing concepts. Develop, establish, and pursue appropriate
analytical protocols and techniques to support research. Includes academic supervision of
research students and collaborative projects with colleagues in partner institutions.
45%
2. Regularly write research articles for prestigious journals (min 3 per year), book chapters, and
reviews. Present papers at international conferences, and lead seminars to disseminate research
findings. Promote the research group locally, nationally, and internationally and liaise with
sponsors, stakeholders, national agencies, and professional bodies.
15%
3. Raise research funds for own research area through funding applications (min 2 per year) with the
intention of developing a minimum income of £100K per year. Share responsibility for shaping the
research group's plans and contribute to the writing of group -funding applications for new research
projects.
15%
4. Manage and monitor research resources, budgets and accounts. 5%
5. Agree clear task objectives, coach and manage other members of the group on specialist
methodologies or procedures. Maintain a balanced focus on both personal development and
10%

Job Profile
Senior Research Leader - Mycology - Job Profile Document v1 June 2021
the development of the team, including research and professional training, to support
individual performance and collective success
6. Carry out consultancy, teaching or public engagement activities, and contribute to policy advice
and science communication in the Gardens.
10%
Management of Resources
All staff are responsible for management of their own time and resources.
Financial Responsibilities :
.
1. Take responsibility for devolved budgets and comply with Kew's financial regulations
2. Manage income and expenditure in order to promote financial sustainability
Management of People
1. Manage group of researchers/post-docs/PhD students
2. Mentor Future Leader Fellows
3. Promote a culture of excellence, innovation, co-operation, inclusion and respect
4. Seek opportunities for collaboration and joint working with others beyond the department and beyond the
organisation
Position within the Team -
HoD, Ecosystem &
Conservation
Science
Senior Research Leader,
Spatial Analysis & Data
Science
Research Leader,
Landscape Ecology
Students, Research
Fellows, postdocs
etc.

Job Profile
Senior Research Leader - Mycology - Job Profile Document v1 June 2021
Section 2: Person Specification
Education and Experience
Essential
Hold a relevant PhD/DPhil, together with significant post-qualification research experience
Sufficient specialist knowledge in the discipline to develop research and methodologies
Outstanding publication record and strong familiarity with the existing literature and research in the relevant field
Experience of making successful applications to competitive funding calls
Experience of working collaboratively within a large project across multiple international institutions
Desirable
Experience of managing a research budget
Experience of managing staff
Experience of providing academic supervision and of delivering teaching
Job Specific Competencies
Essential
Detailed knowledge of problems, literature and appropriate methodologies in specialist field
Ability to lead and motivate a team of research staff, including in multidisciplinary scenarios
Ability to independently plan and manage a research project, including a research budget
Ability to raise research funds through making grant applications
UK Driving licence or equivalent
Desirable
None