The Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (CEH) is part of the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and is the UK's Centre of Excellence for integrated research in terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems and their interaction with the atmosphere. Working in partnership with the research community, policy makers, industry and society, CEH undertakes cutting edge research to deliver world class solutions to the most complex environmental challenges facing humankind. CEH has an annual turnover of £35 million, and employs staff across four sites; the headquarters is at Wallingford with further sites at Bangor, Edinburgh and Lancaster.
About the role
We offer a prestigious Research Associate training program to develop skilled UK/EU scientists for the future of European environmental research. The 3-year training program offers you the opportunity to gain practical experience of working within our active research projects whilst acquiring specialist and wider skills valuable for your future career. Each Research Associate will deliver specific, measurable objectives intended to develop their skills as a researcher and to demonstrate their suitability for a research career.
We are looking for an enthusiastic and committed pollinator ecologist with high level taxonomic skills with an interest in field ecology who is keen to develop these capabilities further by joining an active research team based at our Wallingford site. This is a dedicated training post so you must be flexible and willing to learn new skills in a variety of disciplines.
About you
You must have a degree in environmental science and ability to identify a high proportion of native pollinators to genus and species level either in the field or under the microscope using recently published identification keys. A higher degree equivalent (e.g. MSc) in an appropriate subject or equivalent relevant experience is also desirable. A good basic understanding of pollinator ecology and behavior is also essential. Some wider experience of ecological survey and identification of other taxa (such as plants and beetles) are also essential as the development of these is a requirement of the training. Flexibility and the ability to rapidly learn new skills in field ecology are absolutely essential. Good time management and team working skills are also important. You will also be expected to independently plan and manage small surveys and liaise with land owners regarding access permissions.
What we can offer
Our Wallingford site is set in a beautiful location by the River Thames, with on-site restaurant. We offer a public sector pension scheme, 30 days annual leave and 10½ days public and privilege holiday per annum.
Eligibility to apply
To work for CEH, you must be eligible to live and work in the UK without the requirement for a work permit. CEH can only apply for a work permit in cases where there are no suitably qualified or experienced resident workers; otherwise applicants should normally be resident in the UK or a national of the European Union.
How to apply
Applications are handled by the UK Shared Business Services; to apply please visit our job board http://www.topcareer.jobs/Vacancy/irc240831_7109.aspx please ensure that you complete an application form as CVs will not be accepted as a standalone. The form should be uploaded via the "My Account" menu option on the "Jobs Home" page. Applicants who would like to receive this advert in an alternative format (e.g. large print, Braille, audio or hard copy), or who are unable to apply online should contact us by telephone on 01793 867000, please quote reference number IRC240360.
Closing Date: 16th May 2017
Interview Date: 12th June 2017
