The RSPB Centre for Conservation Science is responsible for the science that informs the delivery of the RSPB’s conservation programmes for inspirational species, habitats and landscapes. If you would like to be part of a large dynamic and enthusiastic team of Conservation Scientists and are keen to use your science to inform policy and practice in Scotland and Northern Ireland, then this might be the position you've been waiting for.

What's the role about?

We are seeking a Senior Conservation Scientist to be responsible for developing and designing the scientific needs of multiple projects relating to species conservation and large-scale habitat restoration in Scotland and Northern Ireland. You will have a broad knowledge base and expertise, and an adaptable and flexible approach to what you work on. An understanding of the ecology and conservation of breeding waders and/or Scotland's Rainforest (aka Atlantic or Celtic Forest), is desirable. This position will work alongside RSPB Country colleagues to fundraise for, and manage the science around, landscape-scale conservation projects that are based on evidence and where testing and evaluation of interventions are a fundamental part of these projects. 

You will develop and maintain scientific and technical expertise in relevant specialist areas, to identify emerging issues and associated research questions to underpin RSPB’s conservation activity and to provide scientific advice and input to colleagues across the RSPB. Over time, you will manage and develop staff up to Conservation Scientist grade, you will collaborate with external partners and academics, engage volunteers and supervise post-graduate students when appropriate which will ensure that RSPB has the knowledge, skills and partnerships required to deliver excellence in conservation science whilst ensuring data quality, ethical and health and safety standards.

Location within Scotland is flexible and for applicants who might need to relocate, we can be flexible about the timing of relocation. You will be expected to travel occasionally to Northern Ireland, other RSPB offices and other locations across Scotland. 

What we need from you

Essential:

• PhD in a relevant subject, or equivalent experience.
• Broad knowledge of current conservation issues and practice, and conservation science, gained through experience of running scientific projects.
• Externally recognised expert or specialist in an area of conservation science and knowledge of how to provide practical and scientific guidance in that area. 
• Broad and deep knowledge of UK species ecology and ecological principles, appropriate to the post.
• Experience of designing robust science projects and knowledge of appropriate data collection methods, and specialist up-to-date knowledge of how to apply complex statistical procedures to enable robust interpretation of data and demonstrable track record of scientific publication in peer-reviewed journals.
• Knowledge and ability to influence others to have best chance of securing external and internal funding. 
• Practical field skills appropriate to the post. 
• Self-motivated and able to work efficiently under pressure to meet deadlines, with the independence to prioritise own working schedule and those under your line management. 
• Practical scientific skills of a standard that ensures the safe and ethical collection of high quality data and the ability to respond appropriately to changing circumstances in sometimes tricky field conditions.
• Great written and verbal communication skills such that you can communicate with a range of audiences. 
• Skilled use of Microsoft Office and ability to use advanced scientific software. 
• Confident and capable of being a public face for RSPB science to the media and social media.

Desirable:

• A high level of identification skills for birds and other nature, with a specialism in breeding waders and/or woodland ecology.
• Ability to translate conservation science into conservation policy and practise.
• Able to work in collaboration with external people and organisations on sometimes tricky and confrontational issues.
• Line management experience
• Supervision of PhD and MSc projects students.
• Able to effectively manage several projects and staff.
• Knowledge of licensing and regulations surrounding field work.  
• Initiative and scientific horizon scanning to conceptualise and propose innovative projects to answer novel and important conservation questions using science.
• Have good links with a wide range of external academic specialists and at least one well developed link with a University or academic institution.

Additional Information

This is a Permanent role for 37.5 hours per week. However, we also welcome applications from qualified candidates who may be seeking a part-time position.

We are looking to conduct interviews week commencing 20th June and are very willing to make reasonable adjustments to the interview to accommodate specific needs. 

For further information please contact jennifer.smart@rspb.org.uk

As part of this application process, you will be asked to complete an application form. Please describe how you meet each of the essential and desirable criteria listed above. 

The RSPB is an equal opportunities employer. This role is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

Before applying for this role, we recommend reading through the candidate guidance notes attached to the top of this advert.