Principal Research Officer, Ecosystem Health & Social Dimensions
Ref: PRO(EHSD)21/CONS

This vacancy has now expired, and is not accepting any new applications.

Location
WWT Slimbridge and Headquarters
Department
Conservation
Salary
£30,055 per annum
Position type
Full Time
Working pattern
37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday
Job advert

WWT’s Conservation Evidence department comprises a rapidly growing team of scientists, which provides the evidence that underpins the work of WWT. We use a wide range of inter-disciplinary methods across the social and ecological sciences to deliver high-quality conservation science. We work in collaboration with multiple NGO and academic partners, and a number of PhD students, across the UK and overseas. Above all, we have impact: our research diagnoses problems and identifies solutions, and in doing so we shape policy and action for global wetland conservation.

The Ecosystem Health and Social Dimensions Unit (EHSD) sits within the Conservation Evidence department and is seeking a talented, motivated and enthusiastic individual to lead a varied programme of scientific research for projects in the UK and in WWT’s international priority countries including Madagascar, Cambodia, Russia and Myanmar. Achieving success in conservation and tackling the big environmental issues of today, from biodiversity loss to climate change, relies on understanding people as well as ecology. Understanding the social dimensions now forms a growing focus of our work and you will bring expertise in the social sciences and/or psychology to:

  • Help make the case for wetlands by delivering evidence that demonstrates their social and health benefits
  • Understand drivers of behaviours that both benefit and harm wetlands, and use this understanding to encourage pro-environmental behaviours
  • Improve conservation practice by evaluating the socio-economic impacts of conservation initiatives.

The role will involve day-to-day support of the Unit’s qualitative and quantitative research and project delivery.

This unique role would suit someone who is keen to use their understanding of human behaviours to help conserve our natural world and encourage co-existence between people and nature. The role will work closely with project partners (externally) and project managers (internally) so strong communication (written and oral) and coordination skills are essential. The successful candidate will be an excellent team worker, hold a PhD in a social science or environmental psychology subject, and be familiar with leading, designing and delivering scientific research projects, preferably in international as well as UK settings.

The Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT) is a conservation charity that protects wetlands for wildlife and people. We conserve, restore and create wetlands. We are pioneers in saving wetland wildlife, both in the UK and around the world. At our 10 UK wetland centres, around a million visitors a year engage with wetland nature. We work internationally in key global wetland areas, balancing conservation with sustainable livelihoods and influencing national and international conservation policies.

In return for your hard work and dedication you’ll enjoy a wide range of benefits including:

  • 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays increasing to 30 days after 5 years’ service
  • Contributory pension scheme (conditions apply)
  • Life assurance
  • Free parking
  • Cycle to work scheme
  • Free entry to all our centres

Closing date:             5th September 2021

Interview date:          16th September 2021

WWT is an equal opportunities employer and all applications will be considered solely on merit.

Registered Charity Number England & Wales, no 1030884 and Scotland, no SC039410

Job description
9_Principal_Research_Officer_EHSD_Vacancy.pdf
Closing Date
05/09/2021

This vacancy has now expired, and is not accepting any new applications.

Unless specifically stated, we do not accept CVs for job applications

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