We are looking for motivated and skilled people Senior Research Assistant To join the RSPB Center for Conservation Science, he is playing a key role in an exciting new collaborative project with the University of Aberdeen.

What is the role?

This role is part of a research team using cutting-edge tracking methods (Advanced Tracking and Localization of Animals in Real-Life Systems – ATLAS) to investigate predator management interventions to address the problem of unsustainable levels of predation on wading chicks. The project evaluates the effectiveness and ecological consequences of current interventions: exclusion fencing, diversionary feeding, and habitat manipulation. While these methods have shown promise in improving nest survival, chick survival is still insufficient to maintain outfitting populations, and some practices may inadvertently increase aerial predation. This project will track predators and prey simultaneously to help evaluate and improve interventions.

You will play a key role in field operations, including:

• Catch and fit tags to adult raptors and hatchlings.
• Maintain a semi-automated electronic tracking system.
• Identify and monitor RAPTOR and WADER nests.
• Collect environmental data (eg habitat structure, hydrology).
• Operating drones and nest cameras.

Basic skills, knowledge and experience

• Degree in ecology or related subject, or equivalent experience.
• Bird ringing licence, with proven experience installing tracking devices for adult Raptors and/or wader chicks and preferably with licensing approvals.
• Strong background in fieldwork and environmental data collection.
• Familiarity with techniques used to acquire field data.
• Highly motivated, with the ability to work effectively in a team and meet deadlines.
• Excellent verbal communication skills to engage with project partners and stakeholders.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office.

Desirable skills, knowledge and experience:

• Experience managing large data sets.
• Experience with electronics.
• Familiarity with statistical or spatial analysis software (e.g. R, QGIS, ArcGIS).
• Ability to write technical and non-technical reports for diverse audiences.
• Interest in predator dynamics and conservation ecology.
• Experience working in interdisciplinary and collaborative research settings.
• Experience engaging with external stakeholders, including land managers and conservation practitioners.
• Driving license.

This is a fixed term role (7 months) for 37.5 hours per week. The RSPB reserves the right to expand or make this role permanent without further advertising of business needs at the end of the contract term.

The location for this field role is Nene Washes, Whittlesey, Cambridgeshire, with a flexible location for any periods of time undertaking office activities. Shared accommodation can be provided locally for the post carrier.

We expect to be interviewed with this position of November 11, 2025 With the role starting in early 2026. For more information, please get in touch (email protected)

As part of this application process, you will be asked to submit a copy of your CV and complete an application form including evidence of how you meet the skills, knowledge and experience listed above.

We are committed to developing an inclusive and diverse RSPB, where everyone feels supported, valued and able to be their full selves. To realize our vision of creating a world richer in nature, we need more people, more diverse, alongside nature. People of color and people with disabilities are currently underrepresented across environment, climate, sustainability, and conservation. If you identify as a person of color and/or disabled, we are especially interested in receiving your application. Contact us to discuss any additional support you may need to complete your order.

The RSPB is an equal opportunities employer. This role is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

This role is not eligible for UK visa sponsorship – the successful applicant will need to have a pre-existing right to work in the UK in order to submit an employment contract.

Before applying for this role, we recommend reading the Candidate Guidance notes linked at the top of this advert.