Principal Research Officer, Wetland Science

About The Role

Do you want to lead the development of innovative research that delivers meaningful outcomes for wetland conservation?

Would you like to work in a collaborative and supportive applied research setting?

WWT’s Wetland BioScience team are looking to recruit an experienced and motivated ecological scientist to lead the delivery of innovative research into saltmarsh invertebrates.

Working within WWT’s Wetland Evidence Department, this role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to internationally important science in collaboration with conservation practitioners and leading universities. This role provides the opportunity for you apply your ecological expertise, curiosity and innovation to research that delivers real-world impact.

This is a 3 year, fixed-term contract working 37.5 hours a week.

About You

We are looking for someone with:

• Experience designing and delivering ecological research projects
• Strong knowledge of terrestrial invertebrate ecology and/or coastal wetland systems
• Excellent analytical and scientific communication skills
• Experience working collaboratively with academic or conservation partners
• A passion for evidence-led conservation and nature recovery

In return, WWT offers:

• The opportunity to focus on impactful, purpose-driven conservation science
• The chance to work across the interface of research, policy and practical conservation delivery
• A supportive interdisciplinary research environment with opportunities to develop new collaborations and research ideas
• Flexible and hybrid working opportunities – regular travel to sites in south west England will be required

About Us

We’re WWT, and we’re on a mission to restore the super-powered ecosystems we call wetlands. There’s never been a more important moment for our work, and we’ve got some phenomenal people on the case.

Whether they’re taking a new visitor under their wing, or conducting ground-breaking research further afield, our team are second to none. And there’s nothing we love more than watching them soar.

Whatever you do here, you’ll be helping to restore wetlands and unlock their power. So, the only question left is, what role will you play?

Why you’ll love working at WWT

• Wake up every day knowing your work is helping to restore wetlands, and our world
• Be surrounded and inspired by our team of passionate, dedicated people
• 33 days annual leave (which goes up to 38 days after 5 years of service) – this includes bank holidays and you have flexibility to take those days whenever you want
• Free entry to all our wetland centres, including your family
• Free car parking and secure bike storage areas
• Colleague discount on shopping and memberships
• Cycle to work scheme
• Contributory pension scheme
• Life Assurance of three times your salary, for peace of mind for your loved ones
• Independent personal, workplace and financial advice from our Employee Assistance Programme

WWT is an equal opportunities employer and all applications will be considered solely on merit.

Registered Charity Number England & Wales, no 1030884 and Scotland, no SC039410