Research Leader in Quantitative Mycorrhizal Ecology

We are seeking a highly motivated scientist to join the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, as a Research Leader in Quantitative Mycorrhizal Ecology.  Kew’s mycorrhizal ecology research group has been expanding rapidly, to meet increasing demand from a range of stakeholders and funders in this area, through major research and UK-based monitoring programmes (e.g. Natural Capital and Ecosystem Assessment Programme, Air Pollution Recovery Indicators, Nature Unlocked). We are now seeking to recruit an outstanding Research Leader to analyse large datasets generated across multiple projects. This is a full-time, permanent research position based at Kew Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site in London.

The Research Leader will support the research team and team leader, providing day-to-day supervision for post-docs, PhD, MSc and BSc students, research fellows, visitors and/or volunteers who are working within a broader research programme overseen by a Senior Research Leader in Mycorrhizal Ecology.  Additionally, the Research Leader will actively contribute to the implementation of Kew’s Science Strategy and play a role in managing the Science Directorate.

Applicants for this role should have research goals aligned with Kew’s Ecosystem Stewardship Scientific Priority and the Mycorrhizal Ecology team. They will be enthusiastic in aiding the delivery for the priority initiatives of the Mycorrhizal Ecology team. The successful candidate will be experienced in analysis of large-scale datasets using bioinformatics (e.g. metabarcoding, metatranscriptomics, or metagenomics) and statistical analysis (e.g. community ecology, modelling). They also collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to model mycorrhizal interactions, predict their effects on ecosystem functioning, synthesize research findings into reports, and contribute to peer-reviewed scientific articles. This position also requires the ability to secure research funding through grant applications and project proposals in the areas outlined above.

We are looking for someone with innovative ideas seeking to develop their career as an independent researcher, leader and mentor. The successful applicant will be an outstanding and inspiring scientist with a relevant PhD and post-doctoral experience in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related field, with a focus on mycorrhizal research. We welcome applicants with a collaborative outlook, an interest in in teaching and outreach, and a curiosity beyond their own expertise in Kew’s overall mission.

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.

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. 

The salary for this position is £43,123 - £46,591 per annum, depending on skills and experience.

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. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.

We are dedicated to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to interview disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.