Ecology Research Scientist: Lead Conservation & Restoration

Cooperation Fund; Atlanta (GA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Atlanta Botanical Garden seeks a Research Scientist, Ecology to lead applied ecological research advancing conservation of rare and imperiled plants in the southeastern United States. You will develop collaborative research across restoration ecology, microbial interactions, translocations, and population viability, translating findings into practical conservation strategies.

The role combines research leadership with field-based conservation, grant development, scientific publication, and

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in ecology, conservation biology, plant biology, botany, restoration ecology, natural resources, or related discipline.
• Proven record of designing, conducting, analyzing, and publishing original ecological or conservation research.
• Experience with rare-plant conservation, population ecology, demography, or population viability.
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills with ecological datasets.
• Ability to develop and manage collaborative research or conservation projects.
• Experience obtaining or contributing to externally funded research programs.
• Peer-reviewed publications appropriate to career stage.
• Excellent scientific writing and interpersonal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead applied ecological research focused on rare plants and restoration.
• Translate research into practical conservation strategies and decision-support tools.
• Analyze ecological datasets and contribute to GIS analyses.
• Develop funded research programs and pursue external funding.
• Manage grants, partnerships, budgets, milestones, and reporting.
• Disseminate research through publications, conferences, and workshops.
• Collaborate with universities, agencies, and conservation partners.
• Mentor interns and students involved in related projects.

Skills

Quantitative analysis

Scientific writing

Interpersonal communication

Collaboration

Mentorship

Research design

Education

Ph.D. in ecology or related field

Tools

GIS

Statistical programming

R

Job description

Atlanta Botanical Garden seeks a Research Scientist, Ecology to lead applied ecological research advancing conservation of rare and imperiled plants in the southeastern United States. You will develop collaborative research across restoration ecology, microbial interactions, translocations, and population viability, translating findings into practical conservation strategies.

The role combines research leadership with field-based conservation, grant development, scientific publication, and