This is a fantastic opportunity to work within a successful charity developing a growing Science and Research portfolio. This post is the key team member in a new Natural England funded project working on adders in Cornwall. The project has a steering group who advise and guide the project lead. The successful applicant will have the opportunity to be involved in a wide range of duties within Froglife, including supporting the Head of Science & Research and other members of the research team.
The main focus of the role will be:
- management and successful completion of the Natural England research projects
- identification of sampling sites across Cornwall
- obtaining permission to sample
- training to ensure safe handling of adders and collection of scale clippings
- storage and organisation of samples for different sites and packaging for genetic analysis
- habitat assessment at refugia sites and adder preferences
- creation of 'adders in Cornwall' website
- creation of information about adders for farmers, landowners, gardeners, schools, developers, dog walkers, tourists and the general public
- generation of press and social media material about the project and about adders to enhance their conservation
The post involves co-ordinating collection of scale clippings from 4 different individuals at 30 different sites plus collection of fresh slough material from the general public.
Applicants will be expected to meet the following essential criteria:
- Hold a graduate qualification or have experience of field surveys for snakes
- Experience of managing research projects
- Experience of working in isolation and within a team
- Knowledge of the UK's reptiles and amphibians
- Ability to travel to remote locations in Cornwall to set-up artificial refugia and sample adders
- Understanding of the legislation surrounding UK reptiles and amphibians
- A DBS with no convictions, cautions or warnings
Applications will be strengthened by the following desirable criteria:
- Experience of working with adders in the field
- Experience of field surveys using artificial refugia
- Experience working with landowners and other stakeholders, ideally in Cornwall
- Knowledge and use of QGIS
- Experience of using EXCEL spreadsheets and statistics packages such as R for managing data
- Experience of awareness raising through delivery at conferences or workshops and websites and online material
Deadline for applications:
17:00 Monday 5th October 2026
Interview date:
Thursday 22nd October 2026 [online]
Start date:
1st December 2026
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, including under-represented groups.
We are happy to discuss flexible working options and job-share opportunities and may be able to 'flex' the start date depending on the selection outcome.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Project Lead: Adders in Cornwall employer: Environmentjob
At the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions a positive work culture and values employee wellbeing. With flexible working options, generous leave policies, and a commitment to professional growth, we empower our team to make a meaningful impact on the National Cycle Network while enjoying a supportive environment. Join us in our mission to promote active travel and be part of a collaborative team that values equity and continuous learning.
