Principal Conservation Scientist – Monitoring

The RSPB Centre for Conservation Science is responsible for the science that informs the delivery of the RSPB’s conservation strategy and programmes working on inspirational species, ecosystems and landscapes for nature and people. If you would like to be part of a large dynamic and enthusiastic team of scientists and are keen to use your science to inform conservation policy and practise, then this might be the position for you.

What's the role about?

We are seeking a Principal Conservation Scientist to be responsible for developing and designing the science relating to biodiversity monitoring and reporting, citizen science and species recovery.  You will have a broad knowledge and expertise in this or a closely related field and an adaptable and flexible approach to what you work on. Understanding of species ecology and conservation is highly desirable, alongside knowledge of quantitative ecology, biological survey design and sampling techniques, and oversight of the emerging techniques in environmental monitoring. Supported by the Head of Monitoring Conservation Science, and members of the science team, you will be responsible for overseeing work programmes, often working in partnership with other NGOs and government agencies, and conceiving, designing, planning and fundraising for innovative and complex scientific projects that withstand external academic peer-review. The role would likely focus on avian monitoring programmes, developing biodiversity goals and indicators, and evaluation for species recovery. In addition, the post holder would seek to develop novel biological monitoring techniques, including via citizen science, and be involved in biodiversity reporting, for example, through the State of Nature partnership. The role would seek to understand better the drivers of biodiversity change and emerging threats to inform conservation strategies.

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 provide scientific advice and input to colleagues across the RSPB and externally.

Location in the UK is flexible, but you will be expected to travel occasionally to RSPB offices in Cambridge or Sandy. The role is UK-based, with the potential for international collaboration.

What we need from you

• PhD in relevant subject.
• Good understanding of conservation issues and practice in the UK and internationally, of species ecology and ecological principles, gained through experience of taking primary responsibility for the management of scientific projects.
• Broad knowledge of the appropriate data collection methods, survey designs, monitoring techniques, prioritisation methods and statistical techniques, and ability to develop new methods.
• Good knowledge of current scientific issues and challenges that are relevant to conservation and how to assess their implications for RSPB objectives.
• National or internationally recognized specialist, in for e.g., species or biodiversity monitoring, biodiversity indicators, population modelling, or quantitative methods.
• Post-PhD experience working as a research scientist, skilled in the use of Microsoft Office and ability to use advanced software for data analyses, such as R or equivalent statistical software.
• Demonstrable track record of scientific publication in peer-review journals.
• Ability to work cooperatively to pursue and win external funding for both UK and International project work.
• Able to effectively manage several projects and staff and their work simultaneously. Self-motivated, able to work efficiently with the autonomy to prioritise and manage their own work.
• The ability to work energetically and cooperatively under pressure to meet deadlines.
• Confident and capable of being a public face for RSPB science with the media. Giving talks on conservation science to varied audiences; practitioners, academic, policy/decision makers, the public, or RSPB group.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the empathy and adaptability to quickly understand different points of view and agree cooperative, mutually beneficial solutions.
• Able to provide constructive scientific input into policy positions and discussions, and project development at a senior level of influence.

Additional Information

We are looking to interview in the week beginning June 20th, 2022, and are very willing to make reasonable adjustments to accommodate specific needs.

As part of this application process, you will be asked to provide a copy of your CV and complete an application form including evidence on how you meet the skills, knowledge, and experience listed above.

For further information please contact: richard.gregory@rspb.org.uk

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

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