Research Leader (Americas)

We are seeking a passionate and experienced plant taxonomist to join Kew’s Americas team as a Research Leader. This role sits within the Taxonomy and Systematics Department and will focus on developing and delivering a coherent programme of taxonomic and systematic research across Latin America and the Caribbean. While Bolivia is currently the core focus of the team, we also maintain active projects in Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador and Mexico.

Kew’s Science Strategy is driven by ten core initiatives. This role aligns specifically with two of them: ‘Transforming Taxonomy’ and ‘Documenting Biodiversity for Conservation Action.’ We expect the successful candidate's research to actively advance one or both of these critical areas. We are keen to encourage candidates who can identify and address taxonomic and identification gaps in forest plot networks across the region. We particularly welcome candidates who can bridge traditional and modern approaches—integrating herbarium collections, fieldwork, and phylogenomics with innovative tools such as AI—to build an ambitious, interdisciplinary research programme. This work will generate species descriptions, determinations, robust taxonomies, and high-quality identification tools that strengthen the documentation of biodiversity in the candidate’s chosen groups.

The successful applicant will be an integral member of Kew’s scientific community, collaborating broadly across Kew Science, contributing to the delivery of Kew’s Science Strategy, and playing an active role in the overall running of the Science Directorate.

We are seeking a passionate and experienced plant taxonomist to join Kew’s Americas team as a Research Leader. This role sits within the Taxonomy and Systematics Department and will focus on developing and delivering a coherent programme of taxonomic and systematic research across Latin America and the Caribbean. While Bolivia is currently the core focus of the team, we also maintain active projects in Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador and Mexico.

Kew’s Science Strategy is driven by ten core initiatives. This role aligns specifically with two of them: ‘Transforming Taxonomy’ and ‘Documenting Biodiversity for Conservation Action.’ We expect the successful candidate's research to actively advance one or both of these critical areas. We are keen to encourage candidates who can identify and address taxonomic and identification gaps in forest plot networks across the region. We particularly welcome candidates who can bridge traditional and modern approaches—integrating herbarium collections, fieldwork, and phylogenomics with innovative tools such as AI—to build an ambitious, interdisciplinary research programme. This work will generate species descriptions, determinations, robust taxonomies, and high-quality identification tools that strengthen the documentation of biodiversity in the candidate’s chosen groups.

The successful applicant will be an integral member of Kew’s scientific community, collaborating broadly across Kew Science, contributing to the delivery of Kew’s Science Strategy, and playing an active role in the overall running of the Science Directorate.

Research Leader (Americas)

More details

The successful candidate will be an established plant taxonomist with deep expertise across species description, classification, identification tools, herbarium specimen study, fieldwork and phylogenomics, and with an openness to incorporating emerging approaches such as AI, spectroscopy and other innovative methods. They will hold a PhD with substantial postdoctoral experience and have a strong track record of effective contributions to collaborative research teams. A robust publication record in plant taxonomy and systematics is essential, alongside practical experience working both in the herbarium and in the field.

The role requires advanced proficiency in documenting, interpreting and applying plant morphology and phylogenomics to the delimitation, identification and classification of species. In addition, the candidate will have a demonstrable specialist focus on a particular plant lineage.

Exceptional interpersonal skills are essential, supported by evidence of broad collaboration and the sharing of knowledge in both formal and informal contexts. Experience in mentoring and supervising staff and students is a requirement for this leadership position. A good working knowledge of Spanish or Portuguese is also desirable. We welcome candidates with an inclusive, collaborative mindset, a passion for the research potential of Kew’s unparalleled collections, and a strong commitment to contributing to Kew’s mission.

Please attach a two-page research plan aligned to the Taxonomy and Systematics Department and the new Science Strategy Goals and Initiatives. If you are invited for interview, you will be asked to give a short presentation of your research plan.

Additionally, please upload a copy of your research CV to support your application. This should include your publication and funding record, as well as any other relevant information to demonstrate your track record as a research scientist e.g. scientific honours and panel / committee memberships, PhD supervision etc.

Interviews are due to take place w/c 14 September.

This role is based at Kew with the option of regular home working, subject to operational requirements.

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth.

We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably. We will achieve these goals by drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history.

Join us on our journey as protectors of the world’s plants and fungi.

The salary for this position is £46,556 - £53,882 per annum, depending on skills and experience [Band E]

Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.

If you are interested in this position, please submit your application through the online portal, by clicking “Apply for this job”.

At Kew, our strength lies in the diversity of our people and the insights they bring. When you join us, you will find an organisation that values your perspective and lived experience. You will receive support to achieve your full potential and access opportunities to develop and progress. Our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion is ongoing, shaped by the people who work here and the communities we serve. As a disability confident employer, we are breaking down barriers to be an inclusive workplace for everyone.

Whoever you are, and however you experience the world, there is a place for you to grow and belong at Kew.

No agencies please.