Research Entomologist

Forest Research (FR) is the research agency of the Forestry Commission, and a world leader in applied forest science, providing evidence and scientific services in support of sustainable forestry, and the health, resilience, and value of Britain’s treescapes.

Interdisciplinary research is encouraged and FR provides a stimulating environment for scientists with professional training in plant pathology, entomology, soils and hydrology, ecology, social science, economics, statistics and spatial analysis. The Tree Health team provides applied research, advice, and management support on established and invasive tree pests and diseases to a wide range of stakeholders and is committed to protecting and promoting forest health. Within this team, we are currently looking to appoint an Entomology research scientist.

The key responsibilities for the role will include:

The role of the post is to work within a small team conducting applied research on the ecology and management of invasive and established forest insect pests, in relation to both defoliating insects (e.g. oak processionary moth) and wood boring insects (e.g. bark and jewel beetles). Initially the post-holder will focus on assisting in developing improved early detection, surveillance and monitoring protocols for invasive insect pests.

However, the post holder will also contribute to the development of new areas of research linked to investigating insect – plant interactions, host plant resistance, natural enemies and chemical ecology, in relation to both defoliating and wood boring insects.

The work will involve field- and laboratory-based experiments, data handling, statistical analysis, literature reviews, and the co-authoring of papers and reports to provide management advice and support UK policy and phytosanitary regulation. The holder of this permanent position will ultimately be expected to develop their own applied research projects on invasive and established forest pests, collaborate with stakeholders, seek funding opportunities, and engage in a range of knowledge exchange activities (e.g. presentations, webinars, writing reports/webpages, and publishing peer-reviewed papers).

For more information and to apply, please visit our website:

https://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/about-us/careers

hr.services@forestresearch.gov.uk

Please quote ref 97856. Closing date: 10 March 2021 at 23.55pm.

No recruitment agencies please.

We are committed to providing equal opportunities for all sectors of our diverse community.