Conservation Scientist – Island Restoration

The RSPB is hiring a Conservation Scientist for Island Restoration, based in London, UK, with flexible remote work options and international travel. The role involves conducting research, collaborating with partners, and supporting the Island Restoration Program. Candidates should have a PhD or equivalent experience, project management skills, and be prepared for fieldwork on remote islands. The position is full-time for two years, with a salary of £39,205 - £41,856.
Reference: NOV
Location: Flexible in UK + International Travel
Salary: £39,205.00 - £41,856.00 Per Annum
Terms: Full-Time, 37.5 hours per week, 2 Years, Fixed Term
The removal of invasive predators from island ecosystems delivers major conservation benefits. We are looking for a scientist to join our international science team and provide scientific evidence to support the RSPB’s Island Restoration Program.
You will work with RSPB colleagues in various departments, as well as partner organisations in the UK Overseas Territories and collaborators from the global island restoration community.
You will develop and conduct research to inform island restoration planning and methodology, monitor project efficacy and explore novel island restoration techniques. You will maintain and develop external collaborations, collating and analysing evidence from the grey and scientific literature to investigate global trends in island restoration science. You will also support, and potentially lead, the development of external funding proposals and present the results of your work to internal and external audiences.
Your work will focus on broader island restoration science and the RSPB’s Henderson and Pitcairn Island Restoration Project. This will include being part of an expedition team planning to visit the island for 4 months from June to October 2026 to collect data and information to inform a potential operation, with a likely repeat visit in 2027.
Essential
PhD in relevant subject, or equivalent experience.
Knowledge of island restoration science issues and practice, gained through experience of leading a scientific project.
Experience of developing and implementing field trials and surveys for biodiversity conservation using appropriate data collection methods.
Data analysis using appropriate statistical methods and presentation of the results of these analyses in reports and peer-reviewed scientific papers.
Experience of extended fieldwork in remote locations with basic living conditions, and knowledge of the health and safety and ethical considerations associated with this.
Effective collaboration and communication with in-country/territory partner organisations.
Can effectively manage projects and meet deadlines.
Able to travel to Henderson Island, South Pacific for all or most of June to Oct 2026 (4 months) as part of an expedition team.
Desirable
Specialism in rodent ecology research, ideally wild rodents in an island setting.
Experience working for rodent / invasive non-native species, island eradication projects.
This fixed term post is initially for two years, with the possibility to be extended further depending on external funding.
Closing: Friday 30th January
To complete your application online please CLICK HERE
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Salary: GBP 39205 - 41856 per year

Experience: 3 years required