RSPB

Conservation Scientist - Social Science

Reference: MAY20228659
Location: Flexible in England
Salary: £33,600.00 - £34,860.00 Per Annum
Terms: 20-month contract, 37.5 hours per week.

The RSPB Centre for Conservation Science is looking for a talented social scientist to join our People Conservation Science section. You will be providing social science research and evidence to inform a new project investigating how to spread conservation action through communities, with a specific focus on the gardening behaviours of UK homeowners living in new-build housing developments.

The project will examine what might motivate this audience to support and conserve wildlife where they live (with a specific focus on private gardens and community spaces) as well as what barriers might exist to prevent engagement in such behaviour.

What's the role about? 

This is a new, exciting fixed-term post reporting directly to our Principal Conservation Social Scientist, Dr Joelene Hughes. Using mixed methods (surveys, interviews, observations) the post holder will test a behaviour change intervention strategy focussing on nudging different gardening behaviours. The research will thereby provide evidence about what works in terms of influencing wildlife friendly gardening behaviour among residents in new housing developments. You will work with RSPB colleagues from outside the science department, and an external business partner who is funding the research. The post-holder will be expected to balance their own project work with some provision of general evidence-based social science advice to the RSPB project team.

Essential

• Proven scientific background (e.g. a PhD or equivalent experience managing a project) in a relevant subject or topic (e.g. sociology, psychology)
• Experience in conducting experimental and quasi-experimental research using both qualitative and quantitative methods, including face-to-face interview techniques such as Key Informant interviews or through focus group discussions, to collect unbiased data from individuals or small groups
• Practical scientific skills of a standard that ensures the safe and ethical collection of high quality data and the ability to respond appropriately to changing circumstances.
• Ability to communicate results appropriately to diverse audiences and stake-holders though various fora and media.

   
Desirable

• Publishing peer-reviewed scientific papers.
• Experience of managing and coordinating a small team of volunteers or field staff and providing team direction.
• Ability to train and coach others in data collection techniques.
• Able to work in collaboration with external organisations / individuals.
• Capable of being a public face for RSPB science.

   
Closing: Monday 27th June

To complete your online application please CLICK HERE

Closing Date: 27/06/2022  Location: Flexible in England