Post-Doctoral Researcher in Conservation Genetics

We are seeking candidates with a strong track record in bioinformatics and population genomics to carry out exciting research that will inform conservation actions in threatened orchid populations. The candidate will design new targeted capture probes for genome-wide genetic analyses in Cypripedium calceolus and Cephalanthera spp., as part of two projects funded by the UK Government as part of the "

Wild Again:

Restoring England's Wildlife" campaign to recover our native species and habitats. The candidate will contribute to the application of the newly generated genetic markers, the analyses and interpretation of population genomic results, with the final aim of providing conservation recommendations for the species.

This is a 24-month, fixed-term position within the Science Directorate.

Hours of work Full time

Contract Type Fixed Term (FTA)

Contract start date October 2026

Contract end date 24 months from start date

Salary £39,243 per annum [Band D]

Directorate Science

Location Kew Gardens, Richmond, Hybrid

Closing Date 20/09/2026

Documents

Employee benefits - RBG Kew 2026.pdf

(PDF, 459.97kb)

Job Profile .pdf

(PDF, 127.84kb)

The candidate will have a PhD degree, or a relevant equivalent qualification, in a discipline related to conservation genetics, population genetics or evolutionary biology. The candidate will also have experience in working with population genomic data. Our ideal candidate will be a highly motivated team player who is passionate about conducting high-quality research.

This role is based at Kew Gardens 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 £39,243 per annum [Band D]

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 "".

We are dedicated to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to interview disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.

No agencies please.