Overview

£27235 – £29577, plus benefits 

Background Information

Forest Research (FR) is the research agency of the Forestry Commission, and a world leader in applied forest science, providing evidence and scientific services in support of sustainable forestry, and the health, resilience, and value of Britain’s treescapes. Interdisciplinary research is encouraged and FR provides a stimulating environment for scientists with professional training in plant pathology, entomology, soils and hydrology, ecology, social science, economics, statistics and spatial analysis. The Tree Health team provides applied research, advice, and management support on established and invasive tree pests and diseases to a wide range of stakeholders and is committed to protecting and promoting forest health. Within this team, we are currently looking to appoint an Entomology Diagnostician.

The key responsibilities for the role will include:

The post-holder will provide support for the Tree Health Advisory & Diagnostic Service, responding to enquiries that come through TreeAlert, email, telephone and letters, as well as samples from surveys, using both morphological and molecular methods. In addition the post-holder will be expected to contribute to field visits and sampling activities on a range of insect pests, as well as engaging in and contributing to work surrounding pest management, including eradication efforts. Enquiries will come from a range of sources, including the Forestry Commission, the general public, and private landowners, and include a range of diagnostic material, from photographs to trap samples or woody material. Though varied, typical examples of work areas would include field and laboratory support for the Ips typographus eradication, identification of insects intercepted in wood packaging material, molecular diagnostics of Pine Wood Nematode, engaging in field surveys and stakeholder training, and helping with public enquiries through TreeAlert, in particular on Oak Processionary Moth. Finally the post holder would also be expected to contribute to administrative tasks such as the development and refinement of Standard Operating Procedures and Risk Assessments. This all requires a strong understanding of tree-pest relationships as well as a general background and interest in entomology and experience in both laboratory and field work. Sample processing also requires rearing and maintaining insect cultures to identify causal pests, microscopy, and maintaining insect reference material, and molecular identification where necessary, including DNA barcoding and real-time PCR. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are also a must as accurate dissemination of results and advice is a key part of the job role. Engaging in, collaborating on and developing research activities as part of the role as opportunities present themselves would be very much encouraged as a minor part of the role.

For more information and to apply, please visit our website:

https://www.civilservicejobs.service.gov.uk/csr/jobs.cgi?jcode=1706802

hr.services@forestresearch.gov.uk

Please quote ref 97859. Apply before 11:55 pm on Sunday 21st March 2021

No recruitment agencies please.

We are committed to providing equal opportunities for all sectors of our diverse community.