Botanist

Botanist

Flora Conservation Department

Major Responsibilities

The postholder will be expected to:

• Apply knowledge of the regional flora, as well as the threats impinging upon it, to identify priority threatened plant species.
• Demonstrate expertise in the taxonomy, ecology and/or genetics of a particular plant group (Orchidaceae or otherwise) of pressing conservation relevance in the region.
• Conceptualise and plan scientific studies aimed at conserving threatened plant species.
• Implement in situ and ex situ approaches, in line with international standards (including both field- and lab-based techniques) and in collaboration with colleagues.
• Support the Senior Office in preparing written proposals, reports and budget justifications.
• Liaise with and engage external consultants, partners and students.
• Assist in planning local field work and major field expeditions.
• Produce scientific papers and technical reports on key findings, integrate ecological information towards the development of conservation strategies.
• Provide training and outreach to different stakeholders in fields including (but not limited to) botany, ecology and conservation science.
• Represent the organisation at international scientific meetings and symposia.

Requirements

• A PhD in plant ecology, biodiversity conservation or a related topic.
• A track record in early-career publishing in ecology and plant conservation journals.
• A proven capacity to complete projects on time and within budget.
• Experience supervising under-graduate and graduate students in this field.
• Knowledge of the flora of the South China region.
• Strong communication skills (written and oral) in English and preferably Chinese (Cantonese and/or Mandarin), too.
• The ability to work in a dynamic, multidisciplinary team.
• Physically fit and comfortable working outdoors.
• Solid working knowledge of R and/or other software for the analysis of phylogenetic, population genetic and/or morphological data is essential.
• Familiarity with IUCN Red Listing protocols, GIS and database packages.
• Willing to work occasionally on weekends or public holidays, as needed (compensation leave will be provided).