Senior Science Officer

Job Description

Senior Science Officer - Research ServicesFixed Term Appointment - 6 months from April 2021 (Maternity Cover)We are looking for an experienced individual with a track record of leading and managing a research support team and who has an excellent understanding of the UK research funding environment. We are facing both challenging and exciting times at Kew over the coming years and to guide us we are currently setting out new strategies for both Science and Kew as a whole.As a result, we are looking for an enthusiastic individual to help support Science and Kew to meet the goals set out in these strategies and respond to a changing world. Kew has an ambitious plan to help stop biodiversity loss and discover sustainable nature-based solutions to some of our biggest global challenges and we will need a team of dedicated research support professionals to help our scientists secure the resources needed to achieve these goals.We need an individual who has strong leadership and communication skills, with a collaborative working style, we also need someone who an effective decision maker and who can work to make change. As part of the Research Services team you will proactively contribute to the growth and development of research activity in the Kew Science Directorate.Kew is the worlds leading botanic gardens, at the forefront of plant and fungal science, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major visitor attraction.We want a world where plants and fungi are understood, valued and conserved - because our lives depend on them.We use the power of our science and the rich diversity of our gardens and collections to provide knowledge, inspiration and understanding of why plants and fungi matter to everyone.The successful candidate will have extensive experience with leading and managing research funding within a Research Support Office and have exceptional communication skills. They will be qualified at least to PhD level in a scientific discipline (or related discipline) with experience of working in a scientific environment.The ideal candidate will be a team player who can manage conflicting priorities and work on their own initiative. The funding environment is fast moving and competitive and we need individuals who can not only move on funding calls rapidly but who can also pre-empt and prepare our researchers for potential themes and areas that funding may become available for.The role sits within the Research Services team who provide expert advice, training and support to Kew scientists throughout the lifecycle of a project, which not only involves working with Science but with many stakeholders across both Kew and our external partners. The appointed candidate will need excellent leadership and interpersonal skills with a confidence in and ability to deal with people at all levels.We offer a fantastic range of benefits including a broad range of Learning and Development opportunities, with access to the Civil Service training curriculum, generous annual leave entitlement for new starters, family friendly policies, a choice of competitive pensions and flexible benefits scheme.If you are interested in this position, please visit our website for more information and to apply.Closing Date: 25/02/2021We are committed to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.No agencies please.