Research Assistant - Centre for Middle Eastern Plants, Science

The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) is a world-renowned institution dedicated to plant science, horticulture, and biodiversity conservation. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where innovation thrives, and diverse perspectives are valued.

We are looking for someone to join our dynamic and busy team in a multi-disciplinary Research Assistant role, within the Centre for Middle Eastern Plants (CMEP), part of the RBGE. where you will have the opportunity to contribute to a range of to a range of research and consultancy work across our 4 core areas of work:

• Generation of taxonomically robust, accessible and useable resources to enable plant identification, conservation assessment and environmental planning across the Middle East
• Delivery of programmes linking biodiversity conservation, restoration, sustainable use and livelihood benefits.
• Identification of priority areas for conservation and restoration
• Developing human and institutional capacity

The preferred candidate will have an MSc (or equivalent experience in a relevant area) in plant science, conservation, or a related field, with a strong interest in sustainable use of natural resources and plant or habitat conservation. Taxonomic and plant identification skills and experience in managing botanical datasets are essential.

The successful applicant will demonstrate a dynamic and collaborative approach, excellent time management abilities, and meticulous attention to detail.

We welcome applications from candidates interested in flexible working arrangements, including part-time hours or job-sharing.

RBGE is unable to sponsor applicants without the right to work in the United Kingdom for this role. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure eligibility to work in the United Kingdom for the duration of the appointment.

Closing date: Midday Wednesday 14 January 2026
Interview date: Week commencing 26 January 2026

If you haven’t heard from us within 2 weeks of the closing date, please assume your application hasn’t been successful on this occasion. No recruitment agencies please.