Principal Research Officer – Environmental Economics

WWT Slimbridge; hybrid and flexible working also considered 37.5 hours per week – Monday to Friday This is a 3 year fixed term contract WWT is seeking an environmental economist to lead on a portfolio of work that builds an evidence-based case for the ecosystem services and natural capital benefits of wetlands in the UK and overseas. The role will help identify opportunities for natural capital investment for wetland restoration and assess the costs to society of wetland degradation. A substantial element of the role will involve leading an economics research programme required for a new ground-breaking multi-million pound saltmarsh restoration project with a focus on valuing the multiple benefits that saltmarshes provide for people and environment, from health & wellbeing and flood mitigation, to carbon storage and biodiversity. Findings will be used to encourage policy decision-makers and other stakeholders across the environmental and business sectors to invest in wetlands via WWT initiatives such as the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Wetlands and the Blue Recovery Leaders Group. The role will involve working with WWT colleagues across the Conservation and Communications Directorates as well as with external project partners, to disseminate outputs through publications, advocacy campaigns, presentations and events. This is an incredibly exciting time to work in wetland conservation. Increased awareness of nature-based solutions to the nature and climate crises has brought new opportunities for wetland restoration. In line with this, WWT has an ambition to create and restore 100,000 hectares of wetland in the UK. The role will sit within the Conservation Evidence Department which is a vibrant, multidisciplinary team of passionate scientists. The department currently employs 26 staff, having doubled in size since 2021. We work in collaboration with multiple NGO and academic partners across the UK and overseas. Our research diagnoses problems and identifies solutions, and in doing so we shape policy and action for wetland conservation. About You You will have specialist skills in Environmental Economics, including valuation methods for market and non-market goods and measuring the economic benefits associated with investments in natural capital, an understanding of sound scientific methods as well as excellent paper-writing and data management skills. You have a good understanding of environmental markets and how they work and knowledge of international biodiversity conservation issues. You are an excellent team worker, problem solver and strong communicator. You hold a PhD or equivalent experience (for example, significant experience undertaking high quality economics work) in an economics subject, and are familiar with leading, designing and delivering scientific research projects. If this sounds like you, this is a unique opportunity to join our growing team and help deliver our vision of a world where healthy wetland nature thrives and enriches lives. In return for your hard work and dedication, you will enjoy a wide range of benefits including: 33 days annual leave including bank holidays increasing to 38 days after 5 years’ service Contributory pension scheme (conditions apply) Life assurance Free car parking and secure bike storage areas Cycle to work scheme Interview date: 21st March 2024 WWT is an equal opportunities employer and all applications will be considered solely on merit. Registered Charity Number England & Wales, no 1030884 and Scotland, no SC039410 Please apply via the ‘Apply’ button above