Research Assistant - Forest Ecology

Want to work at the cutting edge of environmental science?  Passionate about making a difference and playing your part in tackling the climate and nature crisis?  Forest Research is all about giving top quality evidence and advice to policymakers and practitioners to make a positive impact on the ground. Internationally recognised, we need people who have the skills and passion to work on excellent science and provide practical solutions for nature.

We’re small enough that your voice is heard, yet large enough, as part of the Forestry Commission, that we have everything on hand to get the job done, as well as a variety of career pathways.  Our staff are dedicated to their work and sharing it with others to bring positive change for our planet.  And you will find us a flexible and inclusive employer, so you can have a work life balance that is tailor-made to your circumstances. So, whether it’s climate or carbon, pests or pathogens, behaviour or biodiversity that interests you, you can be assured of a warm welcome to the team. To find out more, visit www.forestresearch.gov.uk

A forest ecology research assistant position is available to help support a portfolio of forest ecology research projects including two projects that are focussed on understanding tree condition and tree-associated biodiversity responses to forest management and land use change.

The post-holder will be a member of the Land use and Ecosystem Services Research Group within the Centre for Forest Management. The Centre leads FR's research into climate change, urban forests, silviculture, land use and ecosystem services, and the ways in which society values trees. The post-holder will also be working in close association with the Centre for Forest Protection and with project partners at the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, the University of Reading and the University of Manchester. The Centre for Forest Protection is a Joint venture led by Forest Research and Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, that combines the strengths and expertise of each organisation. 

The forest ecology team the post-holder will be joining, is at the forefront in the forestry sector of applying molecular tools (DNA metabarcoding) as a direct measure of biodiversity. Forest diversification and tree functional trait effects on biodiversity and forest resilience are other key specialist research topic strengths. The team has strong national and international links, publishing widely in peer-reviewed, applied and trade journals.

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