Botanical and Field Research Assistant

The James Hutton Institute is looking to recruit a botanical and field research assistant within its Ecological Sciences department, based in Aberdeen.

Main Purpose of Job

The main purpose of this post is to conduct and support ecological field experiments, surveys, and research led by the Ecological Sciences Department. The post holder will be responsible for botanical survey work, environmental sampling (soils, vegetation), sample processing, data collection and processing.

Main Duties of Postholder

• To work as a member of the Biodiversity and Ecosystems group within the Ecological Sciences Department to efficiently conduct field experiments, surveys and sampling as required.
• To play a key role in provision of field data collection at Glen Lochay
• Provide a high level of botanical expertise and support to the group
• Organise fieldwork logistics (timetables, accommodation, transport)
• Field work (vegetation recording and sampling, soil sampling, environmental monitoring, use of GPS to mark and relocate plots)
• Lab processing of a range of sample types including soil and plants
• Maintain field work and laboratory equipment
• Data recording, entry and processing
• Basic statistical analysis of data
• Engage fully in training to develop all necessary skills
• Assistance with the statistical analyses of field data
• Provision of training to junior staff and/or students in fieldwork and environmental monitoring and sample processing, e.g., soil, plant, waters.

Person Specification

• BSc in a relevant discipline such as ecology or biology or previous experienced gained in a similar role.
• High level of skill in plant identification, particularly of species commonly found in the Scottish Uplands.
• Practical experience in the sampling and analyses of plants, soils and other components of the environment.
• Practical experience in setting up and maintaining field experiments.
• Excellent organisational skills and an appreciation of the need for accuracy and precision in all aspects of sampling, data recording and handling.
• Strong team working skills but can also work independently.
• Experience of data management and basic statistical analyses of data to contribute to the publication of high-quality journal articles and presentations.
• Self-motivated and have good communication skills with other members of the group and stakeholders.
• Ability to follow safety procedures, e.g., health and safety requirements.
• Ability to select appropriate survey methods relevant to the area of study.
• Basic computing skills (e.g., word processing, use of spreadsheets and databases to handle data, use of powerpoint).
• Willingness to do fieldwork in any weather.
• Good level of ‘hill skills’ including navigation and personal safety skills required for working in remote or mountainous terrain.
• Full driver’s license and willingness to drive long distances to field sites
• Flexibility in working hours and a willingness to work away from home at fieldwork sites for multi-day trips.
• Problem solving e.g. adapting methodology on a remote field site to suit the situation, fixing equipment on remote field sites.

Desirable

• Demonstrable interest and experience in Scottish upland habitats.
• Mapping skills – use of a hand-held GPS (for location) and GIS (for recording and analysing spatial data).
• Ability to use R for basic data processing.
• Familiarity in talking to landowners and other stakeholders.
• Experience of working in an interdisciplinary team.
• Experience in driving 4x4 vehicles.
• Experience with identification of taxonomic groups other than vascular plants, e.g., bryophytes, lichens, fungi or birds.
• First aid qualification

The James Hutton Institute

The work undertaken by The James Hutton Group is right at the top of the global agenda tackling problems such as the impact of climate change and threats to food and water security. The James Hutton Institute is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Ecological Sciences are an innovative, multidisciplinary group of scientists who study the interactions between soil, plants, animals, humans and the environment with the aim of sustainable management of natural resources.

Closing date 30th August 2024. Interviews are likely to be held on 19th September 2024.  The post will start not earlier than 1st October, and as soon after this as by mutual agreement. For informal chats about the role please contact Ruth.Mitchell@hutton.ac.uk or Stuart.Smith@hutton.ac.uk

For further information and to apply please visit www.hutton.ac.uk/Careers