Job Description: Research Associate on African Savanna Restoration (University of Edinburgh)

Are you passionate about understanding and restoring ecosystems in the face of global environmental change? This fixed-term role presents an exciting opportunity to join a collaborative research project between the University of Edinburgh and the University of Cambridge, focusing on the restoration and management of African savannas—a dynamic and ecologically significant biome.

In this position, you’ll be part of the SEOSAW network, which studies how African savannas are responding to factors such as climate change and human activity. You’ll contribute to cutting-edge research by collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data on savanna vegetation and soil properties across various sites in Africa. You will play a critical role in understanding how restored savannas compare to unrestored ones and you’ll provide actionable feedback to land restoration practitioners to enhance ecosystem management strategies.

This position is full-time, based at King’s Buildings, University of Edinburgh, under the leadership of Dr. Casey Ryan. It also involves extensive fieldwork across Africa—perfect for someone who thrives on combining ecological fieldwork with impactful research analysis in a global context.

Advice for Applicants: International Education Perspective

If you’re considering applying for this role, here are some key recommendations to help you position yourself for success, particularly if you have an international background:

1. Understand the Context of African Savannas

– This position requires engagement with ecosystems that hold immense ecological, cultural, and socio-economic significance. If you don’t have prior experience working in African savannas, immerse yourself in academic literature on savanna biodiversity, carbon cycling, soil dynamics, and restoration approaches. Include relevant coursework, fieldwork, or research experience that aligns with tropical ecology and restoration.

2. Highlight Fieldwork and Teamwork Experience

– Experience in organizing and conducting ecological fieldwork is crucial. If you’ve carried out this work in different countries or regions, emphasize your ability to collaborate with diverse teams and manage logistical challenges inherent in field research. Cross-cultural collaboration and adapting to local contexts are vital in this role, especially given the travel requirements across multiple African nations.

3. Emphasize Data Management and Analytical Skills

– Highlight your proficiency in ecological data collection, cleaning, and analysis techniques, particularly statistical methods and tools (e.g., R, Python, GIS). Your ability to extract meaningful insights from large datasets will set you apart. Include examples of past projects or publications where you worked with field-based ecological data.

4. Knowledge of Restoration Ecology

– Demonstrate your understanding of tropical restoration efforts and ecosystem management strategies, particularly if you have experience working in biodiversity hotspots or carbon sequestration projects. Mention work related to global environmental issues (e.g., climate change mitigation) and how your expertise applies to savanna ecosystems.

5. Prove Your Independence and Initiative

– As the role requires independent research combined with efficient teamwork, make it clear that you have successfully worked in remote, challenging environments where you organized your own schedule, conducted fieldwork, and delivered results autonomously.

6. Internationally-Minded Application Strategy

– Credentials: An undergraduate or Master’s degree in environmental science, geography, ecology, or a related field is required. If you have foreign qualifications, ensure that they align with UK standards (Grade UE06 Level) and provide conversion benchmarks or certifications if relevant.
– Visa Considerations: For international applicants, confirm your eligibility to work in the UK or highlight how your current visa status aligns with the role’s timeframe (22 months). The University of Edinburgh may offer visa sponsorship under certain conditions.
– Cross-Cultural Awareness: Mention experiences that showcase adaptability to international settings—working across cultural boundaries, building partnerships in global contexts, or conducting research in non-European ecosystems. Savanna research, by nature, involves engagement with local communities and stakeholders.

7. Tailor Your Cover Letter and CV

– Present how your skills align with the detailed job requirements. Notable experience in tropical ecosystems, field leadership, or data analysis in restoration ecology should be prominently featured. Be concise but impactful—emphasize accomplishments, publications, or field projects most relevant to this position.

8. Maximize Networking Opportunities

– If you’re unfamiliar with the SEOSAW network, review their publications, projects, and partnerships to understand their scope and objectives. Show genuine interest in contributing to their research goals. Engaging with the network beforehand (e.g., by referencing relevant work at Edinburgh or Cambridge) can help tailor your application to fit their vision.

Key Details:

• Salary Range: £34,132–£39,355 per annum, Grade UE06.
• Hours: Full-time (35 hours/week).
• Contract Length: Fixed term, 22 months.
• Application Deadline: 29th May 2025.
• Location: University of Edinburgh, King’s Buildings, Edinburgh, with extensive field travel across Africa.

This role offers a unique chance to make a measurable difference in global restoration efforts while developing expertise in ecological research that spans continents. Apply confidently with a well-rounded perspective on international ecosystems and ecological methodology!