Conservation Scientist – Social Science

The RSPB Centre for Conservation Science is looking for a talented social scientist to join our
People Conservation Science section. You will be progressing current social science research
investigating the impact of signs on dog walker behaviour and developing a behaviour change
intervention suitable for inland coastal reserves to reduce disturbance on beach nesting birds.
Building on preliminary research conducted this year, the project will continue to design, test
and evaluate signs as a behavioural intervention to influence lead use behaviour of dog
walkers.

What’s the role about?

This is an exciting, 13-month fixed-term post, reporting directly to our Principal Conservation
Scientist, Dr Joelene Hughes and building on current research. Using mixed methods (surveys,
focus groups, observations) the post holder will design, test and evaluate a behaviour change
intervention strategy on the use of signs and visual cues to influence dog walker behaviour
across U.K inland coastal reserves. To date fieldwork has been located in Norfolk
however there may be opportunities for fieldwork to take place in other areas, for example in
the south of England, if that is more suitable for the selected candidate.

The research will thereby provide evidence about what works in terms of developing behavioural
interventions to mitigate recreational disturbance among recreational user groups. The
researcher will be working with RSPB colleagues including the RSPB reserves teams, and other
external NGOs and public bodies.

Essential skills, knowledge and experience: 

• Proven scientific background (e.g., a PhD or equivalent experience developing and
  delivering a field-based scientific research project) in a relevant subject (e.g., psychology,
  sociology, semiotics) or topic (e.g., interpretation, experience design, behaviour change,
  conservation marketing)
• Knowledge of the appropriate data collection methods (e.g., observational studies, and
  face-to-face interview techniques such as key informant interviews or focus group discussions)
  and the ability to develop new ethically sound methods as and when necessary to answer novel
  questions
• A methodical and rigorous approach to experimental design, data collection, data management
  and analysis ensuring data and results pass international peer-reviewed standards of scrutiny
  and audit
• Able to effectively manage projects and staff (e.g., a small team of volunteers or field
  staff)
• Self-motivated and able to work efficiently under pressure within a defined work plan to
  meet deadlines. This necessitates the ability to plan and organise own work and to manage the
  work of managed staff (e.g., coordinating a small team of volunteers or field staff)
• Able to work in collaboration with external organisations and individuals

Desirable skills, knowledge and experience:

• Strong interpersonal skills and the empathy and adaptability to quickly understand
  different points of view and agree cooperative, mutually beneficial solutions.
• Ability to train and coach others in data collection techniques
• Ability to influence others through production of written material: for example,
  peer–reviewed papers in scientific journals, reports to funders, but also written material for
  any media change.
• Ability to give talks and lectures on science to any audience, whether at an international
  academic conference or a local RSPB members groups
• Capable of being a public face for RSPB science to the media and social media. Able to
  speak about science to varied audiences including industry stakeholders, academics, policy
  makers, the general public, and RSPB members’ groups.

This is a Fixed-Term, Full-Time role for 36.5 hours per week, for 13 months. The RSPB
reserves the right to extend or make this role permanent without further advertising dependent
on business needs at the end of the contract term.

We are looking to conduct interviews for this position on 2nd February 2024.
For further information please contact [email protected] 

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

This role will require completion of standard pre-employment checks.

We are committed to developing an inclusive and diverse RSPB, in which everyone
feels supported, valued, and able to be their full selves. To achieve our vision of creating a
world richer in nature, we need more people, and more diverse people, on nature’s side. People
of colour and disabled people are currently underrepresented across the environment, climate,
sustainability, and conservation sector. If you identify as a person of colour and/or disabled,
we are particularly interested in receiving your application. Contact us to discuss any
additional support you may need to complete your application.

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 be offered an employment
contract.