Senior Research Assistant Seabirds ACCLIMATISE

We are seeking a Senior Research Assistant with seabird experience to join the RSPB’s Conservation Science team in a fixed-term full time role from early 2026 until the 30th of November, 2028. The role will involve field and desk-based work on seabird research and policy in Northern Ireland and will be managed by the recently appointed RSPB Senior Scientist for the ACCLIMATISE project. RSPB is a partner within this cross border project which is led by the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) and funded by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body. 

What's the role about? 

You will support the delivery of this project for RSPB working alongside scientists specialising in seabirds, dietary analyses, cetaceans and fish. This role will require field work on Rathlin Island, Northern Ireland and time away from home, particularly during the April to July period, as well as home or home/office-based desk work. The post will require fieldwork to monitor, tag and track seabirds from Rathlin Island; delivery of quality data preparation and management. You will work collaboratively with external colleagues particularly with the British Trust for Ornithology. You will contribute to report and paper writing on mapping the risk of seabird by-catch in the seas around Northern Ireland and border counties and cross border seabird action plans and a seabird strategy.

Essential skills, knowledge and experience: 

• An undergraduate qualification or equivalent experience in a related field.
• Demonstrable relevant fieldwork experience and knowledge of seabird ecology, gained through involvement in scientific projects
• Knowledge of key licensing and practical requirements and safety training for ensuring health and safety when working around cliff-nesting seabird colonies.  
• Experience in the application of statistical techniques, and in the manipulation  of ecological data.
• Ability to speak effectively to a wide range of audiences.
• Self motivated ability to write reports to deadline and write for a range of publications.
• A valid UK driving licence (due to the nature of the role).

Desirable skills, knowledge and experience:

• A current BTO ringing permit with proven ability in trapping and handling seabirds, tagging and safe fitting of tags and devices.
• Knowledge of data downloading from tagged seabirds, collating and managing seabird tracking data. 
• Experience of working on an island building collaborative and cooperative working relationships with landowners, external stakeholders, government agencies, and collaborators.

This is a Fixed Term, Full Time role for 37.5 hours per week until 30/11/2028. The RSPB reserves the right to extend or make this role permanent without further advertising dependent on business needs at the end of the contract term.

As part of this application process you will be asked to complete an application form including evidence on how you meet the skills, knowledge, and experience listed above.

We are looking to conduct interviews for this position from the 12/01/2026. For further information please contact gillian.gilbert@rspb.org.uk . 

The RSPB is an equal opportunities employer. This role is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. The RSPB is a licenced sponsor.

This role is not eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship - the successful applicant will need to have a pre-existing Right to Work in the UK in order to be offered an employment contract. Before applying for this role, we recommend reading through the candidate guidance notes attached to the top of this advert.

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