Research Assistant in the Insect Ecology Group (Fixed Term)

University of Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK research institution is seeking a Research Assistant for its Insect Ecology Group on a 15-month fixed-term project. The role focuses on public engagement with diverse audiences including young and blind individuals, working to highlight social and environmental issues through innovative resources and exhibitions. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in conservation, experience in public engagement, and a desire to inspire others about ecological research. Applications close on January 7th, 2025.

Benefits

Flexible working requests considered

Qualifications

• Strong background in the museum or wildlife conservation sector.
• Experience in public engagement with diverse groups.
• Understanding of ecological research methods.

Responsibilities

• Identify climate and social justice issues through youth forums.
• Co-produce public engagement resources like 3D insect models.
• Facilitate discussions to voice lived experiences regarding biodiversity.

Skills

Public engagement

Ecological research understanding

Collaboration

Strong background in conservation

Engaging diverse audiences

Job description

Research Assistant – Insect Ecology Group

We are seeking a Research Assistant to work within the Insect Ecology Group on an exciting new project funded by the Esmee Fairbairn Communities & Collections Fund and administered by the Museums Association. The post is a fixed term of 15 months.

Overview

The project will develop initiatives to increase access for audiences that have limited opportunities to engage with museums and wildlife, and empower them to take action on the social and climate crises. Working in partnership with the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire Wildlife Trust, the role will engage three key audiences: young people, blind and partially blind people, and older people.

Responsibilities

• Engage with existing youth forums and specialist groups (e.g. CamSight) to identify key climate and social justice issues to highlight through a temporary exhibition.
• Co‑produce public engagement resources, including 3D insect models, both digital and printed, that illustrate morphological changes in relation to environmental change.
• Facilitate group discussions to develop a platform for participants to voice lived experiences and concerns, including sharing narratives on changes in biodiversity over time.
• Collaborate closely with Wildlife Trust staff and co‑produce temporary exhibit and specimen selection that illustrate identified issues.
• Receive training in working collaboratively with blind and partially blind people, and handling and working with insect specimens.

Qualifications

• Strong background in the museum or wildlife conservation sector.
• Experience of working in public engagement, particularly with young people or blind and partially blind people.
• Experience of, or a sound understanding of, ecological research.
• Highly motivated and passionate about engaging people with nature and research.

Benefits and Working

Fixed term 15 months. Flexible working requests will be considered. The role will be based predominately on site in the Museum of Zoology, with visits to Wildlife Trust reserves and schools.

Application

The closing date for applications is the 7th of January. Interview dates will be online on 15th or 16th January 2025. Please quote reference PF48030 on all correspondence. For informal enquiries, contact Prof Edgar Turner ([e-mail]) or Paulina Lasocka ([e-mail]).

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. We particularly welcome applications from women and from BME backgrounds, as they are currently under‑represented at this level in our department. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.