Research Leader, Seed and Stress Biology

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced and motivated seed scientist to join the Seed and Stress Biology research group as a Research Leader. The Research Leader will develop and lead their own innovative research projects within the broader research programme overseen by a Senior Research Leader in Seed Biology. This is a full-time, permanent research position based at Wakehurst in West Sussex.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced and motivated seed scientist to join the Seed and Stress Biology research group as a Research Leader. The Research Leader will develop and lead their own innovative research projects within the broader research programme overseen by a Senior Research Leader in Seed Biology. This is a full-time, permanent research position based at Wakehurst in West Sussex.

Research Leader, Seed and Stress Biology

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The Research Leader, Seed and Stress Biology will develop and lead their own research team, providing day- to-day supervision for post-docs, and PhD and MSc students. They will be responsible for their own grant-funded research within a wider research programme overseen by Senior Research Leader, Seed Biology. They will contribute to the delivery of Kew's Science Strategy (2026-2030), and to the overall running of the Science Directorate. Applicants will have a research plan aligned with the wider research programme of the Seed and Stress Biology team (Seed and Stress Biology | Kew).

We are looking for someone with innovative ideas seeking to develop their career as an independent researcher, leader and mentor. You will be an outstanding and inspiring scientist with a relevant PhD and post-qualification experience in seed science, with an interest in teaching and outreach. We are particularly seeking applicants with experimental research experience in the seed biology of wild species. We welcome applicants with a collaborative outlook, an interest in the research potential of Kew's unparalleled collections, and an interest beyond their own expertise in Kew's overall mission. This role is based at Wakehurst with the option of regular home working, subject to operational requirements.

As well as completing a full application form, 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.

In addition to a research CV, please submit a research plan (max 2 sides of A4) covering proposed directions of research over the next five years.

Interviews are due to take place w/c 27 July.

This role is based at Wakehurst 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 per annum [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.