Overview

Location: Thetford, Norfolk, United Kingdom
Earnings: £24834.00 to £24834.00

BTO is looking for a Research Ecologist to join our scientists for 6 months to work on several projects. This short-term post will mostly involve the analysis of data from BTO monitoring schemes through three specific research projects:

i. Exploring changes in metrics of avian community structure. The Breeding Bird Survey shows many changes in bird populations both over time and in different areas which we report on for individual species on our website (www.bto.org/birdtrends). But how are these changes reflected in the ‘community’ of birds that are recorded in each square? We would like to develop reporting of metrics of community structure (such as species richness/diversity and indices of specialization) over time and spatially with the aim of incorporating these into our routine reporting programs.

ii. Developing measures of average avian breeding success. Volunteers participating in the Nest Record Survey collect data annually on the on the reproductive success of a wide range of bird species. Variation in reproductive success between years and in different habitats is likely to be sensitive to environmental conditions, so looking at average breeding success across a range of species sharing the same traits or habitats should provide insight into environmental and climatic drivers of change. This will build on recent work improving our measures of species-specific breeding success to compile cross-species metrics and explore their relationship with underlying environmental and climatic covariates.

iii. Developing a framework for predictive population models based on BTO monitoring data and other sources. This project will aim to collate estimates of species-specific demographic rates to understand whether they can explain past/current population changes and hence whether we can develop more forward-looking ways of reporting monitoring data.

WHAT YOU WILL DELIVER

To plan and to undertake research involving the analysis of existing datasets to address applied problems following the programme of work set out by project managers, ensuring that high scientific standards are maintained.
To undertake statistical analysis and modelling of BTO data and to use personal initiative to design and implement analyses of these.
To learn and to implement new statistical methods as required for particular projects.
To work to tight deadlines, producing well-written reports on the work undertaken, and to maintain a scientific publication record in refereed scientific journals.
To communicate the results of projects to amateur ornithologists through semi-popular articles and occasional talks as required, and to answer postal/telephone queries, as appropriate to own knowledge and experience.
To communicate results to the media, including TV and radio, as required.
To contribute to the wider scientific community through such activities as refereeing papers, sitting on external committees, etc..

WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE POST

PhD in ecology, statistics, other related areas, or equivalent experience.
The ability to plan, design and execute analytical research projects and to see them through to the completion of reports and refereed publications.
Excellent computing skills, analytical skills and ecological knowledge.
The ability to learn new methods of statistical analysis and modelling and to apply them to large datasets.
Expertise in computer programming for the manipulation and analysis of ecological data.
Experience of using R is essential.
The ability to learn the use of new programming languages and computer packages as required.
Good knowledge of avian and population biology and its application to conservation science.
Good knowledge of the British avifauna and the ecology of its component species, and of bird survey techniques.
Ability to assimilate relevant information from the scientific literature.
Proven ability to publish in refereed scientific journals and to write scientific reports.
Ability to write clearly for a range of popular and semi-popular publications.
Ability to lecture to a wide range of audience types, including research presentations at scientific conferences and meetings and talks to the general public.
Good personal organisation and time management skills.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

£24,834 per annum
Annual leave entitlement on starting is 25 days plus bank holidays (pro rata if part time).
Life assurance (four times salary)
11% employer pension contribution
Employee Assistance Programme
Retail discounts and Cycle to work scheme
Discounts on BTO books

Closing date for receipt of applications is 1pm on Tuesday 8th February. It is anticipated that interviews will be held remotely on Tuesday 15th February
For an informal chat about the position please contact Rob Robinson (Rob.robinson@bto.org).

About British Trust for Ornithology

The Environment Department within Natural Power comprises approximately 60 people providing services throughout the lifecycle of renewable energy projects. The Offshore Ornithology Consultant will work within our offshore team primarily on offshore wind projects in UK, Ireland, and France. We work on projects during the development, construction, and operating phases, with this role feeding into requirements involving birds during consenting or as required during construction and site operation based on planning condition requirements.

This is an ideal opportunity for someone with specialist bird knowledge and experience of writing bird reports, and who wants to build their career in the offshore renewables energy sector. You will work alongside a team of ornithologists as well other offshore specialists covering planning, marine mammal, benthic habitats, and fisheries. We are a growing, forward thinking, collaborative, and open team, helping the UK transition to green energy and reduce carbon emissions. We encourage individuals to maximise their potential and enable individuals to contribute towards the success of the departments, which look to be at the forefront of the industry, adding value to renewables projects and making a difference.

We will offer an engaging, collaborative and fast-paced environment and an excellent benefits package, including: Generous Annual Leave, Flexible Working, Pension, Employee Assistance Programme, Personal Insurances and a selection of elective benefits which include Health Plans, Discounts and Salary Sacrifice options

Our work and culture

We have been pioneers of positive renewable change at Natural Power for 25 years. If you’re looking for a job in the renewable energy industry, we could be just the place to advance your career.

Our values are at the very heart of what we do every day. By working with us, you’ll be joining a diverse international community of experts who are innovative, inclusive and supportive of your own personal development. We also provide the highest quality of expertise, innovation and client commitment globally.  These are just some of the great things you can help to deliver as part of our team.

Diversity and Inclusion

Natural Power is an equal opportunities employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status or disability status.

Natural Power reserves the right to remove this vacancy at any time.