Job Description

Senior Research Ecologist

Thetford

Full time, Permanent (part time is also condsidered, over 3 days a week)

34,980 - 36,045 per annum + 11% employer pension contribution

We are seeking a skilled and motivated acoustic monitoring specialist to join our team, focusing on the collection and analysis of both new and existing datasets. While a significant emphasis will be on projects related to the Framing Futures Action Area, the role will also involve working with a wide range of datasets, including BTO's own data as well as freely available resources covering habitat, vegetation, climate, protected areas, and bird and other species monitoring schemes from across the UK and Europe.


The successful applicant will have a PhD in ecology or a related field (or equivalent experience), strong knowledge of passive acoustic monitoring, and expertise in analysing ecological data using Python and/or R. They will be skilled in survey design, managing fieldwork projects and scientific writing, with the ability to learn new analytical methods and tools as needed.





They will be experienced in planning and delivering research projects from fieldwork to publication, possess a solid understanding of population processes in birds or bats, and be knowledgeable about British avian and/or chiropteran ecology. Strong communication skills are essential, including writing for scientific and public audiences and presenting at conferences.





A record of scientific publications, the ability to secure research funding and initiative in developing independent research ideas are desirable.




This position is based at our HQ in Thetford, Norfolk, although you will be able to work from home part of the time. We have a hybrid working policy which allows staff to work more flexibly and work from home 40% of the time and the office 60% of the time.

You can read the full role description by clicking on the role description under 'supporting documents' in the job details on our careers page.

Please contact us if you are not sure if you meet all the criteria for the role and would like to discuss the role in more detail.

British Trust for Ornithology: Birds Science People;

it is a powerful combination - will you be part of it?



BTO helps to secure the future for birds and nature, using our science, monitoring and data to inform good environmental decisions, inspiring others with the wonder of birds and empowering them to work with us. Our priority is to make a positive impact for birds, using our strong and objective science in partnership with others. We strive to work sustainably and to welcome everyone.

Our values

We are

evidence-led

, using our science, data and expertise to make a positive difference for birds and for people.

We are

inclusive

, supporting, valuing and having respect for our staff and those who work with us.

We are

collaborative

, working in partnership with individuals and organisations to achieve our collective goals.

We are

empowering

, using our work to create opportunities through which individuals and communities can engage with science and the natural world, for the benefit of all.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

34,980 - 36,045 per annum

Annual leave entitlement on starting is 25 days plus bank holidays (pro rata if part time).

Life assurance (four times salary)

11% employer pension contribution

Employee Assistance Programme offering help and advice to staff and their families on matters related to bereavement, wellbeing, finances, relationships, family and more. This includes a number of free counselling sessions if they are needed.

Retail discounts

Cycling Friendly Employer- Gold accredited

Cycle to work scheme- spread the cost of purchasing a new bike and save money

Discounts on BTO books

Flexible working- A combination of home and office working and flexible start and finish times (where this meets business needs)

Free eye tests and a contribution of 49 towards prescription glasses for VDU use only.

Free car parking

Effective job evaluation policy that recognises where staff increase their level of responsibility over time

Coaching and mentoring scheme

Staff groups and forums- First Aiders and mental health first aiders, Coaching and mentoring, Diversity working, Sustainability and Natural Working, and our staff group, creating a positive and welcoming culture to work in.

Commitment to creating an inclusive environment

Commitment to sustainability


Closing date for receipt of applications is

Sunday, 10th August

and Interviews will be held remotely or at Thetford on Thursday 4th September and Friday 5th September.

If you have any questions, please contact recruitment@bto.org

If you have a disability or long-term illness that otherwise prevents you from meeting any of the essential criteria, please contact us to discuss whether a reasonable adjustment could be made.

As users of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the vacancy.

We recognise that candidates from minority ethnic groups are under-represented in our organisation, and that there are often additional barriers present for people from these groups when applying for roles in the charity sector and beyond. We are committed to taking positive action to expand the diversity of our staff team, and if you meet the essential criteria for a role and are from a minority ethnic background, you'll be guaranteed a first stage interview.

Charity No. 216652 (E&W); SC039193 (Scotland)