Applied Biodiversity Scientist

We are seeking an enthusiastic and innovative Applied Biodiversity Scientist to join our Biodiversity Monitoring & Analysis group. Working within interdisciplinary teams, you will collaborate with colleagues across UKCEH and external partners to improve understanding of biodiversity change and the factors driving it. Using ecological data, statistical analysis, and modelling approaches, you will investigate the impacts of environmental change on species and habitats and help predict how biodiversity may respond under different future scenarios. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to a diverse portfolio of projects that support environmental policy, conservation decision-making, and biodiversity recovery. 

The Biodiversity Monitoring & Analysis group at UKCEH in Wallingford, which includes the Biological Records Centre, comprises 28 permanent staff. BMA scientists conduct applied research on long-term changes in biodiversity, typically using data from national scale citizen science monitoring programs. We develop novel approaches to biodiversity monitoring and assessment, harnessing the power of AI and other technologies. We work closely with end-users to provide evidence to support decision-making. Our work is funded by UKRI, EU, government departments and arms-length bodies, as well as philanthropy and businesses. 

Your main responsibilities will include:  

• Contribute to the design, analysis and interpretation of biodiversity data to support understanding and projecting biodiversity change, working collaboratively with colleagues across UKCEH and partner organisations. 

• Work constructively within project teams, contributing to shared problem‑solving, supporting colleagues, and engaging openly with feedback. 

• Represent the team in meetings with stakeholders and collaborators in a thoughtful and professional manner, demonstrating awareness of audience needs and context. 

• Produce high‑quality scientific outputs (peer‑reviewed papers, reports and presentations), demonstrating good judgement in how evidence is framed, interpreted and presented. 

What we’re looking for: 

• You will have a PhD or equivalent experience in a relevant field (e.g., ecology, conservation biology, environmental sciences). 

• Expertise in applying quantitative methods for ecological questions, especially using long-term monitoring datasets, with awareness of assumptions and uncertainties. 

• Ability to exercise sound scientific judgement and evidence of discussing results critically and transparently. 

• Strong interpersonal skills, including experience of working collaboratively, reflecting on feedback, and adapting working styles to different team and stakeholder contexts. 

• Good time management for delivery of personal work across a portfolio of projects. 

• Professional self‑awareness, including recognising when to seek input, challenge assumptions, or adjust approaches. 

• Excellent written and oral communication skills, demonstrated across a range of audiences. 

UKCEH is committed to supporting professional development, and we welcome applicants without fieldwork experience, providing opportunities to develop the necessary skills within the role. 

What we offer 

At UKCEH, we recognise your dedication and provide a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you both at work and at home. When you join us, you’ll benefit from: 

• Generous annual leave - 27 days (rising to 29 days after 5 years) +3 for Christmas closure 

• 10% employer pension contribution 

• Financial protection through life assurance and income protection 

• Enhanced family-friendly policies 

• Flexible and hybrid working options (depending on your role) 

• Lifestyle perks including dental, gym, retail and cycling discounts 

• A commitment to wellbeing, supported by a range of internal initiatives 

• Employee Assistance Programme and health benefits, including 24/7 support with remote GP access, mental health, physiotherapy and lifestyle services 

• Peer recognition and rewards that celebrate your contribution 

• Salary sacrifice agreement benefits including Electric & Plug-in Hybrid vehicle and Cycle2Work schemes 

• Interest-free annual travel season ticket loans (terms apply) 

How to apply and what happens next 

If you’re interested in this role, we’d love to hear from you. You’ll be directed to our Workday portal where you’ll create an account and upload your CV and a cover letter (approx. 8 mins). Your responses are an important part of our assessment process, so please take the time to complete them thoughtfully: 

• A cover letter: Use clear, concise examples that demonstrate your personal contribution, relevant skills, qualifications (if applicable) and reasoning behind why you would like to join UKCEH 

• Once submitted, our panel will review your application, and please be assured that we are committed to providing an outcome for all applicants, regardless of the result. 

Our Commitment to inclusion 

At UKCEH, we believe everyone should feel welcome and able to be themselves at work. We warmly encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences and identities. As a Disability Confident employer, we’re happy to support you with any adjustments you may need throughout the recruitment process. 

Please note: unfortunately, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role and this does not qualify for endorsement to support a Global Talent Visa application. If you are considering pursuing self-sponsorship, please indicate this in your application so we can take it into account during the recruitment process. 

If we’ve just described you, we’d love to meet. Apply now.