Head of Environmental Trends and Rothamsted Insect Survey

Rothamsted Research; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 46,000 - 67,000

Job description

Overview Of Role

We have a rare and exciting leadership opportunity for an outstanding person to become the Head of the Rothamsted Insect Survey (RIS).

The RIS is sponsored by the Biotechnology and Biological Science Research Council (BBSRC) as a National Bioscience Research Infrastructure (NBRI). More detail can be found in this YouTube video and the website insectsurvey.com.

Do you have an exciting vision for advancing science?

Can you exhibit effective stakeholder engagement?

Do you have the ability to oversee lab, field and desk-based deliverables on time and to budget?

Then we want to hear from you!

The role will require insight into policy, industry drivers and decision-making with the skill to convey and influence these domains. A track record of grant funding and revenue generation will be essential e.g. from government (UKRI, Defra, Innovate FCDO), industry or foundations. We welcome all applications from both academic and commercial backgrounds.

The RIS is responsible for generating, interpreting and publicising data for the world's longest running standardised invertebrate time-series and archive. Its work is essential to informing crop pest management and biodiversity research which in turn influences public policy and climate change science.

1. You will be directing a team working on the nationwide Rothamsted suction-trap network. This is used to sample and monitor aphids and other important insects of relevance to UK agriculture.
2. You would also work on the Rothamsted light-trap network, which is used to collect data on moth biodiversity.
3. You will provide the leadership needed to deliver strategic RIS and institute goals.
4. You need to embrace innovative approaches in shaping new science with impactful outcomes.
5. You will collaborate with a host of other researchers and have extensive engagement with a diverse set of stakeholders.
6. You should be able to demonstrate a keen interest in applying the analysis of long-term data sets in crop protection and biodiversity conservation.

Applicants who feel that they can fully meet all the job specific duties for the role should apply as a Principal Research Scientist (Band G). Salary range for this role is £59,882 - £66,808.

Applicants with less leadership experience are encouraged to apply at the Senior Research Scientist (Band F) level. Salary range for this role is £46,232 - £51,580.

Please apply with a covering letter setting out your suitability for the role and your vision for the position. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive sufficient applications for the role.

About The Company

Established in 1843, Rothamsted Research is one of the UK's leading Research Institutes delivering world class agricultural science. Our commitment to learning and development, equality, diversity and inclusion and flexibility in working arrangements creates a positive work life balance and enables a welcoming environment for all prospective employees.

As a Disability Confident Employer we are committed to making reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process and all disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview. If this is required, please contact us. Applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion or age are welcomed, providing the required criteria is met.

We have an attractive benefits package including 30 days annual leave, a generous pension scheme, Employee Assistance Programme and an attractive campus offering cultural and recreational activities.