Botanical Fieldwork Assistant Aberdeen, Scotland
Job description
The work undertaken by The James Hutton Group is right at the top of the global agenda tackling problems such as the impact of climate change and threats to food and water security.
Ecological Sciences are an innovative, multidisciplinary group of scientists who study the interactions between soil, plants, animals, humans and the environment with the aim of sustainable management of natural resources.
We are looking for a fieldwork assistant for four weeks (17 July to 11th August) to support our recording of the vegetation at our long-term, large-scale grazing experiment at Glen Finglas.
This post will be based in the field; there will be a requirement for an initial visit to Aberdeen.
You must have the right to work in the UK to be eligible for this position.
Main Purpose of Job
The main purpose of this post is to work with a botanist in recording the vegetation at our experiment in Glen Finglas.
Main Duties of Postholder
- To work as a member of the Biodiversity and Ecosystems group within the Ecological Sciences Department to efficiently conduct field experiments, surveys and sampling as required.
- Field work, specifically data recording of vegetation composition
Person Specification
Essential
- Appreciation of the need for accuracy and precision in all aspects of sampling, data recording and handling.
- Strong team working skills.
- Self-motivated and have good communication skills with other members of the group.
- Ability to follow safety procedures, e.g., health and safety requirements.
- Willingness to do fieldwork in any weather in rough terrain.
- Flexibility in working hours and a willingness to work away from home at fieldwork sites for multi-day trips.
Desirable
- Experience of fieldwork and plant recording.
- Botanical identification skills – in particular of Scottish upland plants.
- Full driver’s license and willingness to drive long distances to field sites.
- Demonstrable interest and experience in Scottish upland habitats.
- Experience in driving 4x4 vehicles.
- Experience with identification of taxonomic groups other than vascular plants, e.g., bryophytes, lichens.
