At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead groundbreaking research to restore tropical forests and improve biodiversity.
- Company: Join Africa's top forest restoration company on a mission to revive ecosystems.
- Benefits: Flexible hybrid/remote work, competitive salary, and impactful career opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team shaping the future of forestry in West Africa.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in restoring degraded land and combating climate change.
- Qualifications: PhD and 5+ years in forest restoration research with proven leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Full-time (hybrid/remote) 6 months/year at projects in West Africa.
About Rainforest Builder
Rainforest Builder is Africa's leading forest restoration company, on a mission to restore one million hectares of degraded land to tropical forest. We bring together world-leading science, forestry, and tech, to deliver high-quality forest restoration at unprecedented scale. Backed by some of the largest companies and investors in the world, we remove millions of tonnes of CO2 from the atmosphere, restore globally threatened biodiversity, and deliver equitable economic growth to rural communities. We currently operate four projects across three countries in West Africa and are continuing to expand to new areas within the region.
Role overview
As Rainforest Builder's Lead Restoration Scientist, you will be the driving force behind our ambitious experimental research program. You will design, implement and analyze field trials that underpin continual improvements to our operational practices. You will oversee cutting-edge nursery research to advance our understanding of native rainforest tree seedlings and unlock the production of highly diverse species mixes at scale. You will lead on our programme of seed collection and storage, applying what we learn in our trials to ensure that each project is provisioned with a high-quality seed stock for highly diversified native tree planting at scale. This is a career-defining role with responsibility for generating insights that will shape the outcomes of land restoration across thousands of hectares throughout tropical West Africa.
Key Responsibilities
- Field Silvicultural trials: You will design and manage the running of field trial programs across all Rainforest Builder's active projects, answering key questions concerning how to cost-effectively re-establish native forests. You will provide regular reporting of trial-based insights, and deliver evidence-based recommendations to improve operations across our project areas.
- Tree Improvement & Site-Species Matching: You will oversee a variety of research streams to help understand the drivers of mortality and growth in different species, unravelling the effects of climate, soils, pests and pathogens to understand how to optimally match different species to different environments. You will develop a long-term program of tree quality research to identify high-performing species and individuals, with the potential to include genomic screening and multi-trait selection. You will generate actionable recommendations on seed and seedling sources that will improve the growth and long-term resilience of our restored forests.
- Seed collection and storage: You will oversee our seed collection programme, ensuring that we collect the seed that fuels our operations. This requires collecting high-quality seed in the right quantity, and from the right species, and ensure that we achieve multi-year viability in storage.
- Team Building and Leadership: You will support the growth and development of Rainforest Builder's Research & Development teams across all projects. This will include finding and recruiting talented researchers, as well as providing training and mentorship to our existing teams. You will promote and instil a working culture of the highest standards of productivity, integrity and curiosity, supporting the growth of the next generation of leaders in West African forestry.
Candidate requirements
- PhD in a relevant field
- Minimum of 5 years of research management experience in one of the following areas: research and development in forest restoration; forestry operations; restoration R&D and tree breeding
- Experience working in tropical forests, with a strong grounding in tropical forest ecology
- Proven leadership skills, with effective team management and operational organization, including leading large teams to a tight delivery schedule in challenging field settings
- Strong experience in designing, conducting, and analyzing experimental research, and interpreting research data
- Highly self-motivated, and excited by the challenge of maintaining scientific rigor across a large field operation.
- Excellent problem solver - able to identify problems and challenges as they emerge and resolve appropriately.
To apply
Please email with a CV and covering letter, including the job title in the subject line. Applications via LinkedIn will not be reviewed.
Lead restoration scientist in Hull employer: Rainforest Builder
At Rainforest Builder, we pride ourselves on being a pioneering employer in the field of forest restoration, offering a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on biodiversity and climate change. Our hybrid work model allows for flexibility while working on groundbreaking projects in West Africa, fostering a collaborative culture that values innovation and personal growth. With a commitment to employee development and a mission-driven approach, we empower our team to lead transformative research initiatives that contribute to sustainable economic growth in rural communities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead restoration scientist in Hull
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the forestry and restoration sectors, especially those connected to Rainforest Builder. Attend relevant events or webinars to make connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your research projects, field trials, and any innovative solutions you've implemented. This will help you stand out during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings; reach out directly to Rainforest Builder with your interest in the Lead Restoration Scientist role. Express your passion for forest restoration and how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on industry trends! Follow the latest research and developments in tropical forestry and restoration. This knowledge will not only prepare you for interviews but also show your commitment to the field.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead restoration scientist in Hull
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your passion for forest restoration and how your experience aligns with our mission at Rainforest Builder. Keep it engaging and personal, showing us why you're the perfect fit for the Lead Restoration Scientist role.
Tailor Your CV:Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to showcase your relevant experience in tropical forest ecology and research management. Highlight specific projects or achievements that demonstrate your leadership skills and ability to drive results in challenging environments.
Showcase Your Research Skills:Since this role involves designing and analysing field trials, make sure to detail your research experience. Include any innovative methods you've used and the impact of your findings. We want to see how you can contribute to our ambitious experimental research programme!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, we only review applications sent via email, so make sure to follow the instructions carefully. Include the job title in the subject line and double-check your documents before hitting send. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rainforest Builder
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of tropical forest ecology and restoration practices. Familiarise yourself with Rainforest Builder's projects and their impact in West Africa. Being able to discuss specific examples from your past experience will show that you're not just a good fit, but genuinely passionate about the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Lead Restoration Scientist, you'll need to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams or projects in challenging environments. Highlight your mentoring experiences and how you've fostered a culture of productivity and curiosity in your previous roles.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Expect to dive deep into your research management experience. Be prepared to discuss your approach to designing and analysing field trials, as well as your strategies for tree improvement and site-species matching. Practising answers to potential technical questions can help you feel more confident during the interview.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about Rainforest Builder's future projects, their research methodologies, or how they measure success in their restoration efforts. This shows your genuine interest in the company and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
