Assistant Field Ecologist
Join us as an Assistant Field Ecologist (Botanist) and make an invaluable contribution to our Food Safety & Biosecurity!
At Fera, we’re making the world a better, healthier and safer place. We’re a joint venture partnership between Bridgepoint and Defra and we’re working proactively to protect the world we live in and the food we eat. Our teams are investigating plant and bee health, crop protection and sustainable agriculture. Join us and discover better as you deliver world-class science for the future.
We’re seeking an Assistant Ecologist who is looking for a research career in land use, evaluating the environmental impacts of government policy in the agricultural sector.
The Land Use and Sustainability team carries out research, assessment and appraisal of the agricultural and environmental impacts arising from EU and UK government policy in the agricultural sector. Areas of particular focus are those associated with land use change, monitoring and evaluation of agri-environment schemes and similar initiatives in England, pesticide usage on agricultural and horticultural holdings, conservation of biodiversity and providing independent analysis and support for Defra/NE policy customers. Our work is strongly supported by expertise in agriculture, economics, spatial analysis and geographic information systems.
What you’ll be doing:
- Undertake structured, plant-based field ecological surveys involving habitat identification, condition monitoring and botanical identifications.
- Deliver desk-based planning and delivery associated with fieldwork.
- Assist with the organisation and delivery of field surveys across the team.
- Telephone farmers/landowners to arrange visits.
- Assist with data analysis and report drafting.
- Use fieldwork skills to support others in the Land Use Team.
The role may require travel which necessitates staying away from home overnight between Monday and Friday, potentially for consecutive weeks through the peak survey window.
What we’re looking for:
- Preferably, you will be a graduate with working knowledge and expertise in ecology.
- Ability to recognise broad habitat types.
- UK Driving license holder
- Demonstratable interest/expertise in plant identification.
- Excellent communication skill and strong IT ability.
- Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
- Great attention to detail and the patience to double check work for accuracy.
- A flexible approach to working in a busy and varied work environment.