Post-doctoral Fellowship: Peat-Free Transition (Hybrid/Flexible Working)

Location: RHS Garden Wisley

Hours: Full-time (37.5 hours per week)

Contract: 5-year fixed term contract

Overview of the Role:  Are you passionate about sustainability and the environment, and keen to tackle the climate / biodiversity crisis through horticulture and gardening? The RHS, the world’s leading gardening charity, is looking to recruit a Post-doctoral Fellowship: Peat-free Transition, to undertake an exciting new 5-yr fellowship to undertake research and grower trials in collaboration with the horticulture industry, government and gardeners to support the transition to 100% peat free. The successful candidate will conduct trials, provide grower support and share the outcomes of the research and trials, to have impact across the wider horticulture and landscaping industry and the gardening community. This position will present an opportunity to carry out innovative research, utilising the considerable reach and resources of the RHS. It will also produce peer-reviewed scientific outputs as well as informal outputs and conduct knowledge dissemination and impact activities associated with the transition to 100% peat-free horticulture. The Fellowship will also help towards the delivery of the RHS Sustainability Strategy targets on Net Positive for Nature and People, in particular Nature Target 1 – Climate Positive by 2030. 

Applicants for this Post-doctoral Fellowship role should have a PhD in horticulture, agriculture, soil science, biology, geography, environmental science, or equivalent experience leading a relevant research programme in commercial horticulture or agriculture, with a proven ability to conduct large scale experimental research trials. 

To work for the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) is to join a thriving charity, whose mission is to be there for everyone on their lifelong adventure with gardening. Everything we do is built on the transformational power of gardening – and the benefits it brings to people, places and our planet. 

And we couldn’t do this without our people. We’re proud of the knowledge, enthusiasm and ideas that each one of our team members brings. From working across our social media channels, to volunteering in the RHS Gardens, from serving customers in our garden centres to running national marketing campaigns, we believe that every member of the RHS team should have the opportunity to make a difference.  Our careers portal here provides a comprehensive overview of what we offer, the teams that work at the RHS and our great benefits. 

Safeguarding and Inclusion

The RHS is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and expects all personnel to share in this commitment. We are an inclusive employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. 

We may review applications as soon as we receive them so if you see a vacancy that you are interested in, please apply straight away as the vacancy will be closed as soon as we hire the right candidate. If you require any additional support with making your application, please contact sharonellis@rhs.org.uk please ensure to include the job title or job reference number REQ (found at the top of the advert) when emailing.

To apply, please click the 'Apply' button above.

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