Head of Science Policy

The Head of Science Policy will deliver RBG Kew’s mission by collaboratively working with our
researchers to provide expert, evidence-based advice and support to both UK and international
governments and bodies on science policy where relevant to Kew’s work, enabling research
outcomes to inform and influence policy development. They will identify areas of priority,
producing impact case studies, papers and thought leadership pieces. Importantly they will be
responsible for Kew’s internationally recognised role as the UK Scientific Authority for the
Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) for Flora through leadership of
a CITES policy team and will act as Kew’s expert lead on the Convention for Biological
Diversity (CBD) and other related conventions, policies and agreements.

We are seeking experienced candidates with a track record of working at the research-policy
interface in an environmental, conservation and/or biodiversity science context. Experience in
diplomacy, negotiation and advocacy in these arenas is required, as is knowledge gained through
working experience of CITES, CBD, UNFCCC and/or the UK Wildlife Trade Regulations. Significant
experience of preparing complex scientific information for a wide range of audiences is
essential, including of producing briefing material for decision-makers and to deadlines.

This is a permanent position within the Science Directorate, responsible for a team of c. 10
staff and interns.

This role is based at Kew with some travel to the Wakehurst site required. There is the option
of regular home working, subject to operational requirements, with a minimum 2 days per week on
site at Kew. The role requires international travel.

Interviews are expected to take place during the week commencing 27th May.

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World
Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants
and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth.

We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where
nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably. We will achieve these goals by
drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global
network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history.

Join us on our journey as protectors of the world’s plants and fungi. 

The salary will be £56,445 – £65,000 per annum, depending on skills and experience.

Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous
annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, an
Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and
discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and
free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own
beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.

We are dedicated to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all sections of the
community. We are committed to interviewing disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria
for the post.

No agencies please.