Senior Research Assistant

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

What's the role about?

This role is part of a research team using cutting edge tracking methods (Advanced Tracking and Localisation of Animals in real-life Systems - ATLAS) to investigate predator management interventions to address the problem of unsustainable levels of wader chick predation. 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 remains insufficient to sustain wader 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 central role in field operations, including:

• Catching and fitting tags to adult raptors and wader chicks.
• Maintaining a semi-automated electronic tracking system.
• Locating and monitoring raptor and wader nests.
• Collecting environmental data (e.g. habitat structure, hydrology).
• Operating drones and nest cameras.

Essential skills, knowledge and experience

• Degree in ecology or a related subject, or equivalent experience.
• Bird ringing license, with proven experience fitting tracking devices to adult raptors and/or wader chicks preferably with license endorsements.
• Strong background in fieldwork and ecological data collection.
• Familiarity with technologies used in field data acquisition.
• Highly self-motivated, with the ability to work effectively in a team and meet deadlines.
• Excellent verbal communication skills for engaging with project partners and stakeholders.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office.

Desirable skills, knowledge and experience: 

• Experience managing large datasets.
• 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-prey dynamics and conservation ecology.
• Experience working in interdisciplinary and collaborative research settings.
• Experience engaging with external stakeholders, including land managers and conservation practitioners.
• Driving licence.

This is a Fixed-Term role (7 months) for 37.5 hours per week. 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.

The location for this field-based role is the Nene Washes, Whittlesey, Cambridgeshire, with a flexible location for any periods of time undertaking desk-based activities. Shared accommodation may be provided locally for the post holder.

We expect to conduct interviews for this position from 11th November 2025 with the role starting early in 2026. 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.

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. 

Before applying for this role, we recommend reading through the candidate guidance notes attached to the top of this advert.