Major Responsibilities

The postholder will be expected to:

• Apply knowledge of the regional flora, as well as the threats impinging upon it, to identify priority threatened plant species.
• Demonstrate expertise in the taxonomy, ecology and/or genetics of a particular plant group (Orchidaceae or otherwise) of pressing conservation relevance in the region.
• Conceptualise and plan scientific studies aimed at conserving threatened plant species.
• Implement in situ and ex situ approaches, in line with international standards (including both field- and lab-based techniques) and in collaboration with colleagues.
• Support the Senior Office in preparing written proposals, reports and budget justifications.
• Liaise with and engage external consultants, partners and students.
• Assist in planning local field work and major field expeditions.
• Produce scientific papers and technical reports on key findings, integrate ecological information towards the development of conservation strategies.
• Provide training and outreach to different stakeholders in fields including (but not limited to) botany, ecology and conservation science.
• Represent KFBG at international scientific meetings and symposia.

Requirements

• A PhD in plant ecology, biodiversity conservation or a related topic.
• A track record in early-career publishing in ecology and plant conservation journals.
• A proven capacity to complete projects on time and within budget.
• Experience supervising under-graduate and graduate students in this field.
• Knowledge of the flora of the South China region.
• Strong communication skills (written and oral) in English and preferably Chinese (Cantonese and/or Mandarin), too.
• The ability to work in a dynamic, multidisciplinary team.
• Physically fit and comfortable working outdoors.
• Solid working knowledge of R and/or other software for the analysis of phylogenetic, population genetic and/or morphological data is essential.
• Familiarity with IUCN Red Listing protocols, GIS and database packages.
• Willing to work occasionally on weekends or public holidays, as needed (compensation leave will be provided).

Interested parties should send their CV (including list of publications) and cover letter (describing relevant work experience, your motivation to work for KFBG and expected salary) to the People & Culture Manager, Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden Corporation, Lam Kam Road, Tai Po, New Territories, Hong Kong, or email kfjobs@kfbg.org.