Research Leader - Landscape Ecology and Ecosystem Science

We are seeking an outstanding ecologist or environmental scientist with expertise in spatial ecology, ecosystem science or ecological modelling to lead an ambitious programme of applied ecosystem research at RBG, Kew. You will develop and lead research that combines field ecology, spatial analysis, environmental monitoring and Earth observation to understand how ecosystems function and change, quantify ecosystem services, and develop approaches for their monitoring, restoration and management.

You will integrate field observations, sensor networks, geospatial information and Earth observation to develop scalable approaches for ecosystem assessment, monitoring and management, producing practical tools and policy-relevant evidence whilst working with government, environmental bodies, academic institutions, conservation organisations and land managers. You will coordinate Kew’s Living Laboratories Initiative, a key element of Kew’s Science Strategy 2026–2030 and lead the development of research projects within it (see Initiative 4 of https://www.kew.org/science/our-science/publications-and-reports/science-reports/kew-science-strategy)

Based at Kew’s Wakehurst site, which hosts the Living Laboratories Initiative and supports long-term ecological research and environmental monitoring, you will build an ambitious programme of research across Wakehurst, Kew’s other sites and a growing network of partner landscapes. You will connect long-term ecological observation with landscape-scale evidence to deliver research with real-world impact, while securing statutory and philanthropic funding for a growing portfolio of research.

The role provides strategic and scientific leadership for applied ecosystem research at RBG, Kew, including research infrastructure and environmental data acquisition. You will lead and develop a multidisciplinary research team, supervise and mentor researchers and students, build strategic partnerships and networks, and contribute to the wider scientific leadership of Kew Wakehurst.

You will also contribute to Kew’s wider research programme through collaboration across disciplines and the use of Kew’s unique collections, expertise and living landscapes.

We are seeking an outstanding ecologist or environmental scientist with expertise in spatial ecology, ecosystem science or ecological modelling to lead an ambitious programme of applied ecosystem research at RBG, Kew. You will develop and lead research that combines field ecology, spatial analysis, environmental monitoring and Earth observation to understand how ecosystems function and change, quantify ecosystem services, and develop approaches for their monitoring, restoration and management.

You will integrate field observations, sensor networks, geospatial information and Earth observation to develop scalable approaches for ecosystem assessment, monitoring and management, producing practical tools and policy-relevant evidence whilst working with government, environmental bodies, academic institutions, conservation organisations and land managers. You will coordinate Kew’s Living Laboratories Initiative, a key element of Kew’s Science Strategy 2026–2030 and lead the development of research projects within it (see Initiative 4 of https://www.kew.org/science/our-science/publications-and-reports/science-reports/kew-science-strategy)

Based at Kew’s Wakehurst site, which hosts the Living Laboratories Initiative and supports long-term ecological research and environmental monitoring, you will build an ambitious programme of research across Wakehurst, Kew’s other sites and a growing network of partner landscapes. You will connect long-term ecological observation with…