View the full posting here.

Purpose of the role 

We are looking for an quantitative ecologist or ecological statistician with strong analytical skills, particularly in the fields of survey design, power analysis, population trend estimation and habitat suitability modelling. The successful applicant will lead on the design, analysis and reporting of data from a wide range of innovative bat population monitoring surveys with a particular focus on passive acoustic monitoring, undertake research into the use of woodland habitats by bats, and provide statistical advice to projects across BCT’s Science team.

Responsibilities

• Develop effective survey, analysis and reporting protocols for both structured and unstructured bat monitoring surveys employing passive acoustic sensors.
• Lead research focusing on the use of woodland habitats by bats 
• Develop R Markdown reports for BCT’s suite of bat conservation status monitoring surveys • Develop scripts to automate routine analysis and reporting activities.
• Provide statistical advice to projects across BCT’s Science team.
• Develop other areas of research to address BCT’s evidence needs, and produce funding proposals to support this research. 
• Publish research in peer-reviewed journals. 
• Communicate BCT’s science work to wider audiences. Working relationships 

Inside the organisation 

• Based within the Science team 
• Reporting to the Head of Science and Monitoring 
• Working closely with colleagues in the Science and Conservation teams 

Outside the organisation 

• This post will work with our volunteers, Bat Groups, partners, funders and collaborators at organisations such as JNCC, Natural England, Natural Resources Wales, NatureScot, and UK universities. Other relevant factors This post requires compliance with BCT’s Staff Handbook policies, Health & Safety Policy, Data Protection regulations, Safeguarding Policy, and Green Housekeeping

£30,000 - £33,000 per year (pro rata if not full time)

Fixed term contract for 30 to 37.5 hours a week for 12 months

This post may be undertaken remotely or may be split between remote working and our main office in Battersea, South London.

We have a fantastic opportunity to lead our programme of research and development of new bat population monitoring techniques, with a particular focus on passive acoustic monitoring and monitoring in woodlands, and to contribute directly to the conservation of the UK’s unique and fascinating bat fauna.

The Bat Conservation Trust (BCT) is proud to be the leading UK charity devoted solely to the conservation of bats and their habitats. Through scientific research, education and collaboration we deliver effective conservation action for these remarkable species.

The Bat Conservation Trust coordinates the National Bat Monitoring Programme, a world-leading citizen science programme which produces population trends for British bat species. We are continually developing this programme to include new monitoring and analysis approaches. We aim to ensure our monitoring work is underpinned by robust science, and that the data we produce contributes to high-quality cutting-edge research.

To support this goal, we are looking for a scientist with a passion for quantitative ecology to lead research into and the development of innovative bat population monitoring approaches, with a particular focus on passive acoustic monitoring, to undertake research into the use of woodland habitats by bats, and support the delivery of robust science across BCT’s Science team. You will have strong analytical skills, particularly in the fields of survey design, power analysis, population trend estimation and habitat suitability modelling, and you will hold a PhD in a relevant discipline.

Application information

Job Description / Person Specification

Application Form

EDI Monitoring Form

Working with BCT

Application deadline: 9am Wednesday 22nd May 2024

Interviews Dates: Interviews will be held via video call between the 11^th – 13^th June 2024

Please send your completed application form to Sian Moore at [email protected] or via post to the Bat Conservation Trust, Studio 15 Cloisters House, Cloisters Business Centre, 8 Battersea Park Road, London SW8 4BG
 

If you have any further questions please contact us at [email protected] or 020 7820 7167