Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
Research Leader - Ecosystem Function & Resilience
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Hours of Work
Full time
Contract Type
Permanent
Salary
£46,556 - £53,882 per annum, depending on skills and experience [Band E]
Directorate
Science
Location
Kew Gardens, Richmond, Hybrid
Closing Date
30/08/2026
Join the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, as a Research Leader in Ecosystem Functioning and Resilience and help shape the future of biodiversity science. Working within the Spatial Analysis and Data Science Team in Kew’s Ecosystem & Conservation Science Department, 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 an exciting opportunity to lead innovative research exploring how ecosystems function, respond to environmental change and support biodiversity and ecosystem services.
You will provide scientific and strategic leadership for a programme of research that combines field data, Earth observation, remote sensing and ecological modelling to understand ecosystem patterns, structure and function, resilience and change, particularly within open and data-limited ecosystems. Working collaboratively across Kew and with external partners, you will develop impactful research programmes, secure funding, build partnerships and lead a multidisciplinary team to generate evidence that supports biodiversity protection, ecosystem monitoring and nature-based solutions (e.g. restoration), translating research into practical tools and policy-relevant insights.
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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 in ecosystem functioning and resilience, with a strong track record of research excellence, scientific publications, securing funding and collaborating across disciplines. You will have an interest in teaching, outreach and impact, with the ability to lead and motivate research teams, develop innovative research programmes and build partnerships that translate scientific knowledge into meaningful outcomes for biodiversity conservation, ecosystem resilience and nature-based solutions.
Please upload a copy of your research CV to support your application. This should include your publication and funding record, as well as any other relevant information to demonstrate your track record as a research scientist e.g. scientific honours and panel / committee memberships, PhD supervision etc.
This role is based at Kew with the option of regular home working, subject to operational requirements.
About Us
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.
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Join us on our journey as protectors of the world’s plants and fungi.
Benefits
Our fantastic benefits package includes:
- Opportunities for continuous learning
- Generous annual leave entitlement
- Flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership
- Competitive pension
- Employee discount scheme
- Free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries
- Access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
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.
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