At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research on biodiversity and ecosystems at Kew Wakehurst.
- Company: Join the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous leave, and wellness support.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to protecting the planet's biodiversity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on conservation and land management for future generations.
- Qualifications: PhD with significant research experience in spatial ecology or ecosystem science.
The predicted salary is between 46556 - 53882 £ per year.
Join the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, as a Research Leader in Living Labs based at Kew Wakehurst, you will help shape the future of biodiversity science. Working within the Spatial Analysis and Data Science Team, you will contribute to the delivery of Kew's ambitious new Science Strategy (2026–2030), advancing our mission to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth.
This is a unique opportunity to lead innovative research that improves our understanding of biodiversity and ecosystems, generating evidence that influences conservation practice, land management and environmental policy in the UK and beyond. You will provide scientific and strategic leadership for Kew's growing portfolio of ecosystem research, centred around the development of the new Living Laboratories initiative and building on the foundations of the Nature Unlocked programme at Wakehurst.
Focused on UK ecosystem research, the programme draws on living labs and long-term environmental monitoring to improve understanding and management of biodiversity and ecosystems. This post also forms part of the Senior Leadership Team at Kew Wakehurst and is key to ensuring active collaboration between science and other directorates. Bringing together field observations, sensor networks, Earth observation and geospatial data, you will lead interdisciplinary research that delivers practical solutions for biodiversity conservation, assessment and monitoring of ecosystem services.
You will also help develop and steward research infrastructure and environmental data assets. Alongside developing and securing funding for an exciting programme of research, you will build partnerships across government, academia and the private, land management and conservation sectors, while leading and inspiring a multidisciplinary team of researchers and students.
We are looking for someone with innovative ideas who is seeking to develop their career as an independent researcher, leader and mentor. You will be an outstanding and inspiring scientist with a relevant PhD and significant post-qualification research experience, with a strong track record of research excellence, securing funding and collaborating across disciplines. You will bring expertise in spatial ecology, ecosystem science or modelling, supporting evidence-based conservation and nature-based solutions.
You will have an interest in teaching, outreach and impact, with the ability to lead and motivate research teams, develop impactful research programmes and build partnerships that translate scientific knowledge into meaningful outcomes for UK biodiversity and land management. This role is based at Wakehurst with the option of regular home working, subject to operational requirements.
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth. We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably.
We will achieve these goals by drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history. Join us on our journey as protectors of the world’s plants and fungi.
Our fantastic benefits package includes:
- Opportunities for continuous learning
- A generous annual leave entitlement
- Flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance
- An Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership
- A competitive pension
- An employee discount scheme
- Free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries
- Access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst
At Kew, our strength lies in the diversity of our people and the insights they bring. When you join us, you will find an organisation that values your perspective and lived experience. You will receive support to achieve your full potential and access opportunities to develop and progress. Our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion is ongoing, shaped by the people who work here and the communities we serve. As a disability confident employer, we are breaking down barriers to be an inclusive workplace for everyone. Whoever you are, and however you experience the world, there is a place for you to grow and belong at Kew.
Research Leader - Living Labs - Wakehurst employer: Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, perfect for those passionate about digital product development. With a focus on employee growth and a competitive benefits package, you will have the opportunity to lead a talented team in creating impactful digital services that enhance user experience while contributing to Kew's ambitious Digital Strategy. Located in a world-renowned botanical garden, this role offers a unique environment where your work can truly make a difference.
Contact Details:
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Leader - Living Labs - Wakehurst
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
Have you worked on any cool research projects? Make it easy for potential employers to see your work by creating a portfolio or a personal website. This way, when you apply for roles like the one at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, you can point them to your projects and publications, showcasing your expertise directly.
✨Utilise Professional Networks
Networking is key in scientific research. Join professional bodies or organisations related to your field. They often have job boards and resources tailored for job seekers. Make connections with professionals who may know about openings or can give you tips on landing a full-time position.
✨Keep Your Eyes on Openings & Apply Directly
Don’t just rely on job boards! Keep an eye on the careers section of the websites of companies like Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Apply directly through their website because sometimes they post jobs there before anywhere else. Plus, it shows your proactive approach!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Leader - Living Labs - Wakehurst
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew to drive research projects forward.
