Principal Research Officer

WWT’s Conservation Evidence Department is seeking a scientist to deliver research that investigates the effects of urban river and floodplain interventions, primarily on ecological communities, but also on hydrological functioning, water quality and geomorphology. WWT already have some data in-hand, with more to be collected by the successful candidate. WWT will present the findings in reports but also seek to publish peer reviewed papers and communicate the findings at conferences.

The role has arisen because of WWT’s involvement in Project Sponge (Slough) and Community Bluescapes (Richmond in London) projects. In these projects, WWT is working with Richmond Borough and Slough Councils and other local partners to deliver innovative, nature-based flood alleviation initiatives that are already underway, aiming to future-proof neighbourhoods against the impacts of climate change.

The role will sit within the Conservation Evidence department which is a vibrant, friendly and multidisciplinary team of passionate scientists. 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. We work in collaboration with government, NGOs and academic partners, and a number of PhD students, across the UK and overseas.

The role will involve working closely with WWT colleagues across the Conservation Directorate, as well as project partners and volunteers. The objective is to provide high quality evidence that will help to fill evidence gaps, thus potentially improving the management of urban wetlands. The successful candidate will need to demonstrate:

• Post-doctoral or equivalent experience of study conception and design, data collection, data analysis, and scientific reporting including in, but not necessarily limited to, ecology.
• A record of publishing in international scientific journals.
• Some knowledge of the methods required to monitor the hydrological effects of Natural Flood Management and/or Sustainable Urban drainage.
• Ability to collaborate with and/or influence people from external organisations, demonstrating advocacy and communication skills to ensure WWT objectives are met.
• Be able and prepared to regularly collect data and attend meetings and site visits in Richmond in London and Slough.

The role supports hybrid working, with travel to both Slough and Richmond as required to carry out the research.