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- Tasks: Support trees and forestry policy with evidence-based research and analysis.
- Company: Join a multidisciplinary team within the Biodiversity, Land Use and Investment Directorate.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and opportunities for impactful research.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with strong support for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in environmental policy and contribute to sustainable forestry.
- Qualifications: Experience in forestry science, ecology, or related fields required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
You will be part of the Trees Research, Evidence and Analysis Team within the Biodiversity, Land Use and Investment Directorate. This is a multidisciplinary, G6 led team comprising of natural scientists, economists and social scientists. We support the trees and forestry policy team which is responsible for delivery of trees and forestry policy including the governments legally binding targets under the Environment Act.
Our team leads on championing and embedding science and analysis into the Trees and Forestry team to ensure that both policy and delivery are based on evidence. We are responsible for managing research projects, translating evidence into policy and managing our expert, independent advisors the Trees and Woodlands Science Advisory Group.
We are seeking a Senior Scientific Officer to join our team who has relevant experience in forestry science, ecology or closely related relevant disciplines. The successful candidate will need to use technical knowledge and expertise to generate high quality evidence to support policy making.
This role will support policy and delivery colleagues in the Trees and Forestry Team by ensuring their work is underpinned by robust evidence. The postholder will identify evidence needs and apply technical expertise to develop, manage, and deliver scientific research and evidence that informs policy.
The role requires strong coordination and collaboration across organisational boundaries to align outputs with evidence standards, policy objectives, and statutory requirements. Working at the science–policy interface, you will collaborate with policy and evidence teams across Defra, its arm’s-length bodies, and the wider research community, translating complex environmental data into clear, accessible insights to support decision-making.
You will also have opportunities to take a leading role in commissioning, organising, and delivering R&D projects as part of the wider evidence programme. Candidates will join the Directorates’ Science Professional Community that provides a peer group for professional learning, development, and support. These science posts are eligible for a Specialist Skills Supplement.
Trees and Forestry Science Advisor employer: Government Recruitment Service
Contact Detail:
Government Recruitment Service Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trees and Forestry Science Advisor
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the forestry and environmental science fields on platforms like LinkedIn. Join relevant groups, participate in discussions, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare a portfolio or a presentation that highlights your previous projects and research in forestry science or ecology. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, use this to demonstrate how your skills can directly support their policy-making efforts.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on industry trends! Follow relevant publications and organisations to keep your knowledge fresh. This will not only help you in interviews but also show that you’re genuinely passionate about trees and forestry science, which is a big plus for any employer.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it super easy for you to find roles that match your skills. Plus, applying directly through us means you’ll be in the loop for any updates and opportunities that come up. Don’t miss out on your chance to join our Trees Research, Evidence and Analysis Team!
We think you need these skills to ace Trees and Forestry Science Advisor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Trees and Forestry Science Advisor role. Highlight your relevant experience in forestry science, ecology, or related fields. We want to see how your skills align with the job description!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about trees and forestry policy. Share specific examples of your work that demonstrate your technical expertise and how it can support evidence-based decision-making.
Showcase Collaboration Skills: Since this role involves working across various teams, make sure to highlight your collaboration skills. Mention any past experiences where you successfully coordinated with different stakeholders to achieve common goals.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Government Recruitment Service
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your forestry science and ecology knowledge. Be prepared to discuss recent research, policies, and how they relate to the role. This shows that you're not just interested in the job but are also passionate about the field.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
Since this role involves working across various teams, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in the past. Highlight your experience in coordinating projects and how you’ve managed to align different perspectives towards a common goal.
✨Translate Complexity into Clarity
Practice explaining complex environmental data in simple terms. You might be asked to demonstrate how you would communicate scientific findings to non-experts. Being able to convey your insights clearly is crucial for supporting policy-making.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the Trees Research, Evidence and Analysis Team's current projects and future goals. This not only shows your interest in the role but also gives you a chance to assess if the team aligns with your career aspirations.