Career Opportunities
Research Botanist
- Position Title: Research Botanist
- Supervisor: Director, Species Science
- Location: Arlington, Virginia (2 Blocks from the Rosslyn Metro)
About Us
NatureServe, a nonprofit conservation science and technology organization, provides the scientific basis for effective conservation action. With nearly 100 staff and an international network of over 80 natural heritage programs across the United States, Canada, and Latin America, we are the leading source of information on rare and endangered species and threatened ecosystems. We provide information and tools to conservation groups, government agencies, corporations, academia, and the public to help them make informed decisions about managing our natural resources. NatureServe holds a unique niche, by providing scientifically sound guidance for major conservation investments across the hemisphere.
Summary of Position:
This is an exciting opportunity with the possibility of advancement for a botanically-inclined conservation biologist to join an international environmental organization and make a positive impact on pressing environmental issues. Initially this will be a part-time position with the possibility of becoming full-time in the fall of 2010. The position is based in our office in Arlington, VA, within a convenient walk of the Rosslyn Metro Station.
The research botanist develops, reviews, and revises information relating to the conservation status of native plant species, primarily rare species, throughout the United States and Canada. Much of the work centers on compiling data on geographical distribution, abundance, threats, trends, habitat requirements, natural history, and management needs, followed by application of NatureServe criteria to synthesize this information into a standardized estimate of conservation status. The position requires extensive communication with state, federal, academic, and independent botanists, as well as searching and synthesis of published scientific literature. The position is project oriented, with some projects directed to meeting specific data needs of U.S. federal land-management agencies and other work, including data review and taxonomic reconciliation, supporting the information needs of state natural heritage programs/conservation data centers or other clients. The research botanist also provides botanical expertise for the development of NatureServe methodology and assists in using NatureServe botanical data to address conservation problems such as alterations in land use patterns and climate change. S/he often works on a tight schedule to meet deadlines, and helps write proposals and supervises interns.
Essential Job Functions
- Compile botanical data from the scientific literature, unpublished sources, and personal communications to update and fill gaps in NatureServe?s central scientific databases, with emphasis on documenting and updating the conservation status of globally rare native plant species. Apply both NatureServe and IUCN (Red List) conservation status assessment systems to estimate relative imperilment.
- Conduct internal review and quality control of database information. Assist in review and taxonomic reconciliation of data received from network member programs (e.g., state natural heritage programs). Perform data analyses and write reports relating to plant species conservation.
- Complete other botanical information development tasks as needed, including projects such as assessing the invasiveness of exotic species and compiling georeferenced records to estimate plant species' distributions.
- Represent NatureServe via presentations to scientific meetings or public audiences, respond to information requests, and assist in liaison with plant conserva?tionists, land managers, academic researchers, and government officials. Maintain relationships with key NatureServe partners.
- Assist in preparation of proposals to federal agencies and private foundations to secure funds for botanical research projects.
Required Experience & Qualifications:
- M.S. in botany or in biology or ecology with a botanical emphasis.
- At least one year of experience working in a botanical field.
- Strong working knowledge of some portion of the North American flora, either a particular region, group of habitats, or plant family or clade.
- Knowledge of systematic concepts.
- Strong research skills.
- Excellent speaking and writing ability required, especially the ability to write clearly and concisely for an educated lay audience.
- Team player and ability to interact efficiently with geographically-dispersed colleagues.
- Flexibility to travel, sometimes with short notice.
Preferred Skills:
- Experience working with rare and/or endangered plant species.
- Proficiency working with complex databases (e.g., SQL query skills).
- Extensive contacts with professional North American botanists.
- Experience with natural heritage methodology and/or with conducting IUCN Red List Assessments.
- Working knowledge of GIS, including basic spatial analysis skills.
- Experience fundraising public and/or private funds for conservation or scientific projects.
- Knowledge of the potential impact of climate change on plants.
How to Apply:
Please send resume and cover letter to:
- Attn: Job #RB910
- NatureServe
- 1101 Wilson Blvd., 15th Floor
- Arlington, VA 22209
- E-mail: jobs@natureserve.org (Please refer to Job#RB910 in the subject line)
For more information about NatureServe, go to www.natureserve.org