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- Tasks: Lead impactful research projects on natural environment policies and collaborate with diverse teams.
- Company: Defra, the UK government department dedicated to protecting our natural environment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on innovative solutions for environmental challenges.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in environmental policy and contribute to a sustainable future.
- Qualifications: Experience in social research and strong collaboration skills required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Defra is the UK government department responsible for safeguarding our natural environment, supporting our world‑leading food and farming industry, and sustaining a thriving rural economy. Our broad remit means we play a major role in people’s day‑to‑day life, from the food we eat and the air we breathe to the water we drink.
This role is based in the Research and Evaluation team within the Environment Science and Analysis division. The team provides specialist social research and evaluation expertise to support teams working on natural environment policy issues across Defra’s Strategy, Governance and Climate (SGC) and Biodiversity, Land Use and Investment (BLI) directorates.
As a Senior Research Officer, you will work alongside colleagues in an interdisciplinary evidence division, including social researchers, economists and scientists, reporting to a Principal Social Researcher. You will be working very closely with policy colleagues to deliver a broad programme of research and evaluation and will be responsible for leading high‑profile insights, research and evaluation projects, working across professions and complex policy areas. The team is currently working particularly closely with the Access to Nature team, the wider Access, Landscapes, Peatland and Soils division, and the Land Use division.
Key areas of contribution:
- Environmental Improvement Plan – enhancing beauty, heritage and engagement with the natural environment
- National River Walks
- Local Nature Recovery Strategies
- Farming in Protected Landscapes programme
- Peatland policy
- People and Nature Survey
Senior Research Officer – Natural Environment employer: Government Recruitment Service
Contact Detail:
Government Recruitment Service Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Research Officer – Natural Environment
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Defra on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the role and help us stand out when we apply.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into Defra's recent projects, especially those related to the natural environment. We want to show that we're not just interested in the role but also passionate about their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice our STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for answering competency questions. This will help us articulate our experiences clearly and demonstrate how we can contribute to the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows we’re serious about joining the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Officer – Natural Environment
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Senior Research Officer role. Highlight your relevant experience in social research and evaluation, especially in natural environment policy. We want to see how your skills align with our mission at Defra!
Showcase Your Interdisciplinary Skills: Since this role involves working with a diverse team, emphasise your ability to collaborate across different fields. Mention any past experiences where you’ve worked alongside economists, scientists, or policy colleagues. We love a team player!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to convey your ideas and avoid jargon unless it's necessary. We appreciate clarity as much as we appreciate creativity!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at Defra.
How to prepare for a job interview at Government Recruitment Service
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key areas mentioned in the job description, like environmental policy and social research. Brush up on recent developments in natural environment issues and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with Defra's goals.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
Since this role involves working closely with various teams, highlight your teamwork skills. Prepare examples of past projects where you collaborated with different disciplines, showcasing your ability to lead and contribute effectively in an interdisciplinary environment.
✨Prepare Insightful Questions
Think of thoughtful questions to ask during the interview. This could be about the current projects the team is working on or how they measure the success of their research initiatives. It shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand if it’s the right fit for you.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion
Let your enthusiasm for the natural environment shine through. Share personal experiences or projects that reflect your commitment to environmental issues. This will help you connect with the interviewers and show that you’re not just looking for a job, but are genuinely invested in making a difference.