Job Summary

The Senior Ecologist will lead the conceptualisation and delivery of the applied conservation work carried out by the Integrated Species Conservation Section of Flora Conservation Department through the development of research projects, justification of their budgets and direct line management of two technical staff. The Section has proven expertise in blending in-situ and ex-situ approaches to advance the conservation of threatened native plants in Hong Kong and the wider South China region – primarily herbs, shrubs, epiphytes and vines in families including Orchidaceae, Aristolochiaceae, Fabaceae and Asparagaceae – by conducting field-, laboratory- and nursery-based experiments and disseminating findings in the form of scientific papers, reports, policy recommendations, talks, exhibitions, workshops and educational experiences.

The Senior Ecologist will report to and work closely with the Head of Flora Conservation and other senior staff on both the scientific and horticultural sides, to ensure programmes and projects synergise with overall departmental and organisational strategy. With a firm emphasis on engagement, s/he will play a key role in the preparation of written documents and the presentation of concepts and outcomes, for both internal and external stakeholders. As such, strong language and communication skills are a must. S/he will be responsible for the day-to-day operation of the Section and assist with maintenance and development of scientific facilities (including genetics, micropropagation and ecology laboratories, and a herbarium) for the generation and analysis of taxonomic, genetic and ecological data. The post-holder will organise and participate in surveys to help identify conservation priorities and devise studies that contribute to the reintroduction and restoration of threatened species on the ground. S/he will have a track record in working effectively with people of diverse backgrounds, winning funding, completing projects on time and within budget, and turning good science into compelling stories.

Major Responsibilities

• Lead and administer a small team of scientific staff.
• Actively contribute to the development of departmental strategy, operations, programmes and research direction.
• Rationalise and manage a budget for the section’s operations, including attracting external funding.
• Participate in inter-departmental fora at KFBG to enhance standards in nature conservation and site management.
• Apply knowledge of the native flora, and the threats that impinge upon it, to identify priority plant species, with an emphasis on herbs, vines, shrubs and/or epiphytes.
• Conceptualise, plan and execute scientific studies that integrate both in-situ and ex-situ approaches, as well as field- and lab-based techniques, aimed at conserving threatened plant species in the wild.
• Build effective collaborations with colleagues and engage with external experts, consultants, partners and students, both in Hong Kong and overseas, as needed.
• Plan and conduct field trips and expeditions in line with KFBG safety protocols.
• Produce scientific papers and written reports on key findings, integrate ecological information towards the development of conservation strategies, and communicate these in the form of management guidelines, stakeholder presentations, talks, workshops, media posts, and so on.
• Transform research findings into applied actions on the ground and provide learning opportunities for stakeholders, driving positive behavioural change relating to nature, science and sustainability.
• Represent KFBG at local and international scientific meetings, conferences and symposia.

Other Duties

In addition, the post-holder may be asked to assist with the following, as needed:

• Organise and facilitate meetings, conferences and workshops for capacity building and network expansion between KFBG and external professionals.
• Handle general administrative and operational duties of the department.
• Help with other occasional activities and events, including leading guided tours and giving public talks.
• Participate in activities arranged by KFBG to develop the culture of the organisation.

Requirements

• PhD in ecology, botany, conservation or related discipline, with a track record of scientific publishing and attracting funding in one or more of these fields.
• A minimum of 3 years’ experience in a leadership role, working closely and effectively with senior colleagues, and engaging with external professionals and the public.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and spoken, in English and ideally also Cantonese or Putonghua.
• In-depth ecological knowledge of one or more plant family, or of the flora of the South China region, would be a distinct advantage.
• Solid working knowledge of RStudio or Python, and/or next generation genomics methodologies.
• A valid driving license would be an advantage
• Open minded and recognising the validity of all spiritual paths
• Willing to work on a roster including some weekends and public holidays (compensation days will be provided)

Application Method
Interested parties, please send your CV with current / last salary, expected salary and availability to the People & Culture Department, Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden Corporation, Lam Kam Road, Tai Po, New Territories, Hong Kong or via email at pnc@kfbg.org