Trees and Forestry Science Advisor

You will be part of the Trees Research, Evidence and Analysis Team within the Biodiversity, Land Use and Investment Directorate.

This is a multidisciplinary, G6 led team comprising of natural scientists, economists and social scientists. We support the trees and forestry policy team which is responsible for delivery of trees and forestry policy including the governments legally binding targets under the Environment Act.

Our team leads on championing and embedding science and analysis into the Trees and Forestry team to ensure that both policy and delivery are based on evidence. We are responsible for managing research projects, translating evidence into policy and managing our expert, independent advisors the Trees and Woodlands Science Advisory Group. We are seeking a Senior Scientific Officer to join our team who has relevant experience in forestry science, ecology or closely related relevant disciplines.

The successful candidate will need to use technical knowledge and expertise to generate high quality evidence to support policy making.

Trees Research, Evidence and Analysis Team

This role will support policy and delivery colleagues in the Trees and Forestry Team by ensuring their work is underpinned by robust evidence. The postholder will identify evidence needs and apply technical expertise to develop, manage, and deliver scientific research and evidence that informs policy.

The role requires strong coordination and collaboration across organisational boundaries to align outputs with evidence standards, policy objectives, and statutory requirements. Working at the science–policy interface, you will collaborate with policy and evidence teams across Defra, its arm’s-length bodies, and the wider research community, translating complex environmental data into clear, accessible insights to support decision-making.

You will also have opportunities to take a leading role in commissioning, organising, and delivering R&D projects as part of the wider evidence programme.

Candidates will join the Directorates’ Science Professional Community that provides a peer group for professional learning, development, and support.

These science posts are eligible for a Specialist Skills Supplement. Please see below under the heading ‘Salary’ for further information.