Senior Research Officer (Wetland Landscapes and Processes Team)

About The Role

WWT is seeking a wetland scientist to create ground-breaking evidence about the effectiveness
of wetlands as nature-based solutions. This role will particularly focus on the evidence gaps
about how wetland restoration and creation affects water quality and hydrological functioning.
There is substantial scope for the successful candidate to help to develop these areas in the
newly formed Wetland Landscapes and Processes Team.

The role will include evidence review, research design, fieldwork, analysis and write-up,
including of academic papers. Initially, the successful candidate will lead on exciting areas
of ongoing WWT science:

• Gathering and analysing evidence to determine the effectiveness of Natural Flood Management
  interventions on groundwater recharge (with the possibility of adding a water quality component
  to this work).
• Development of a strategy for the improvement of water quality at the 10 WWT visitor
  centres.

In addition, we want you to develop new projects that support WWT’s Strategy, using your skills to examine the
effectiveness of treatment wetlands and other wetland nature-based solutions in improving water
quality, flood and drought resilience.

This role is full time, working 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday although part time working or other flexible working options would be considered. The role is based at Slimbridge with the opportunity for hybrid working.

This is an incredibly exciting time to work for WWT. Increased awareness of nature-based
solutions to the nature and climate crises has brought new opportunities for wetland
restoration. In line with this, WWT has an ambition to create and restore 100,000 hectares of
wetland in the UK.

WWT’s success is built upon an evidence-based approach. Our Conservation Evidence department
currently employs 29 staff, having doubled in size since 2021. We have a highly collaborative
ethos in our interdisciplinary team (including physical, ecological, social and economic
specialisms). We value publication of peer-reviewed papers, but we do so in a proportionate and
supportive manner. Without teaching responsibilities, our scientists can focus on research. WWT
Conservation fosters a friendly and constructive atmosphere – it is important to us that our
staff are happy and satisfied at work. We work in collaboration with multiple academic partners
and NGO across the UK and overseas. Above all, we have impact: our research diagnoses problems
and identifies solutions, and in doing so we shape policy and action for wetland conservation.
We have dedicated communications and policy teams that help to facilitate the timely
communication of our research to important audiences strengthening our pathway to impact.

About You

You have a relevant PhD or equivalent experience, and you want to use your skills in wetland
science to contribute to ambitious wetland conservation programmes. You are a team-player,
problem-solver, partnership worker and a strong communicator.

At WWT we believe that everyone should be able to come to work, volunteer or support our
organisation as their full selves. We are committed to creating a welcoming environment where
diversity and difference is valued. We welcome applications from everyone who meets the
criteria and strongly encourage individuals who are under-represented in the environmental and
charity sectors to apply.

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 Care first

WWT is an equal opportunities employer and all applications will be considered solely on
merit. 

Registered Charity Number England & Wales, no 1030884 and Scotland, no SC039410