Principal Research Officer

About The Role

WWT’s Conservation Evidence Department is seeking a scientist to deliver research that investigates the effects of urban river and floodplain interventions, primarily on ecological communities, but also on hydrological functioning, water quality and geomorphology. WWT already have some data in-hand, with more to be collected by the successful candidate. WWT will present the findings in reports but also seek to publish peer reviewed papers and communicate the findings at conferences.

The role has arisen because of WWT’s involvement in Project Sponge (Slough) and Community Bluescapes (Richmond in London) projects. In these projects, WWT is working with Richmond Borough and Slough Councils and other local partners to deliver innovative, nature-based flood alleviation initiatives that are already underway, aiming to future-proof neighbourhoods against the impacts of climate change.

The role will sit within the Conservation Evidence department which is a vibrant, friendly and multidisciplinary team of passionate scientists. Above all, we have impact: our research diagnoses problems and identifies solutions, and in doing so we shape policy and action for global wetland conservation. We work in collaboration with government, NGOs and academic partners, and a number of PhD students, across the UK and overseas.

This is a full time, fixed-term contract until 31st March 2027, working 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

About You

The role will involve working closely with WWT colleagues across the Conservation Directorate, as well as project partners and volunteers. The objective is to provide high quality evidence that will help to fill evidence gaps, thus potentially improving the management of urban wetlands. The successful candidate will need to demonstrate:

• Post-doctoral or equivalent experience of study conception and design, data collection, data analysis, and scientific reporting including in, but not necessarily limited to, ecology.
• A record of publishing in international scientific journals.
• Some knowledge of the methods required to monitor the hydrological effects of Natural Flood Management and/or Sustainable Urban drainage.
• Ability to collaborate with and/or influence people from external organisations, demonstrating advocacy and communication skills to ensure WWT objectives are met.
• Be able and prepared to regularly collect data and attend meetings and site visits in Richmond in London and Slough.

The role supports hybrid working, with travel to both Slough and Richmond as required to carry out the research.

We reserve the right to close the advert early if we receive a sufficient number of applications from candidates who meet the required skills and experience. We therefore encourage early applications.

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.