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Research Botanist
📍 Richmond, London On-site Full-time Mid-level GBP 3,200–4,000/mo
About the Position
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is a world-leading centre for plant and fungal science, housing over 8.5 million herbarium specimens and one of the most diverse living plant collections on Earth. We are seeking a Research Botanist to join our Science Directorate and contribute to Kew’s mission to understand and protect the world’s plant diversity.
Responsibilities
- Conduct original taxonomic and systematic research on assigned plant groups
- Curate and develop herbarium collections including digitisation of specimens
- Contribute to Kew’s global plant conservation assessments and red listing
- Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and contribute to Kew’s scientific outputs
- Supervise MSc and PhD students and collaborate with international research partners
- Support Kew’s public engagement through exhibitions, talks, and media contributions
What You’ll Work On
You will have access to Kew’s unparalleled botanical resources including the Herbarium, Jodrell Laboratory, and Millennium Seed Bank at Wakehurst. Research areas may include plant systematics, conservation genetics, or ethnobotany, depending on your expertise. Kew offers a unique environment where cutting-edge science directly informs global conservation action.
Requirements
- PhD in Botany, Plant Systematics, or Plant Conservation Biology - Published research in peer-reviewed botanical journals - Experience with herbarium curation and plant taxonomy - Proficiency in molecular phylogenetics or conservation genetics - Fieldwork experience in tropical or subtropical regions preferred
What They Offer
- Access to Kew's world-class herbarium and library collections - 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays - Civil service pension scheme - Free entry to Kew Gardens and Wakehurst - Support for international fieldwork and conference attendance - Flexible working arrangements
