1011-322 - Marine Ecology Advisor - D Grade - May 2024

NatureScot is looking to appoint a qualified marine ecologist who can collate and summarise, critically review, and analyse sensitivity assessments for a range of Scottish marine nature conservation features. The purpose is to complete assessments, and continue to support key developments, updates and improvements to an online marine Feature Activity Sensitivity Tool FeAST[1]. The FeAST tool allows users to investigate the sensitivity of marine features in Scotland's seas against pressures arising from human activities. Evidence and updates to FeAST include using sensitivity information within MarLIN[2]. The ambition for FeAST is to hold all sensitivity information for all marine features of conservation importance in Scotland in a transparent and consistent manner. The successful applicant will focus on providing specialist advice in a summarised form that will enable online content upload and improvements.

The post holder will play a key part in NatureScot's ongoing work to chart the health of Scotland's seas and progress towards the Scottish Governments vision of heathy, productive and biologically diverse marine and coastal environments. This 12-month fixed term post is a role within NatureScot's Marine Ecosystems team, working closely with other marine colleagues, the FeAST Working Group and digital design team. Where capacity allows, the role would also work to support the wider aims and objectives of the Marine Ecosystems team.

The position would suit marine ecologists with critical thinking and a range of communication skills. A sound overview and understanding of benthic ecology, biotopes and their classification, protected marine features and connectivity to all pressures affecting them is required.

A detailed programme of work will be agreed at the outset of the post. Flexibility in working patterns and days can be provided to accommodate the suitable candidate. Some of the responsibilities outlined will be shared across other team members. Please note line manager is based in Inverness.

[1] FeAST can be accessed at https://feature-activity-sensitivity-tool.scot/

[2] MarLIN example habitat sensitivity assessment can be accessed at https://www.marlin.ac.uk/habitats/detail/112/limaria_hians_beds_in_tide-swept_sublittoral_muddy_mixed_sediment,

• Collate, produce and update sensitivity assessments for marine features using a standard methodology.


• Review and analyse compiled sensitivity assessments on marine habitats and species (including mobile species) against pressures from human activities and climate change through literature reviews and collaborating with specialist advisors.


• Critically review existing sensitivity assessments and assist with quality assurance.


• Collaborate with colleagues and improve FeAST tool functionality and user experience: testing user-interface; problem-solving; communicating and liaising with colleagues, stakeholders and the digital design team; assisting with gathering user stories, developing guidance and training for using the tool.


• Continue good working relationships with key partners (digital design team, JNCC, etc) and other relevant stakeholders alongside internal colleagues.


• Represent NatureScot and collaborate with colleagues at meetings and steering groups of inter-agency and partnership projects relevant to the FeAST tool and content development.


• Contribute to relevant, wider work of the Marine Ecosystems team including communications, guidance, advice and support., Whether working at home or in an office, or travelling to meetings and site visits, as a NatureScot you will contribute to our Net Zero plan, for example through positive carbon travel choices. You will aim to minimise travel in accordance with NatureScot's low carbon operating procedures. However, you will, in some circumstances, be expected to work with colleagues and stakeholders from across Scotland, which will involve some travel and may involve overnight stays.
  
  A relevant degree in marine biology or ecology or in a relevant subject (with marine biology/ecology specialist modules).


• A sound overview and understanding of Scottish marine benthic ecology, biotopes and their classification, protected marine features, and the issues relating to their sensitivities.


• Knowledge and understanding of the key pressures affecting the marine environment arising from human activities and climate change.


• Ability to review, analyse, collate, interpret, manage, and summarise scientific information and undertake literature reviews. In particular, a working knowledge of Excel spreadsheets and Word, data interpretation, critical analysis, clear presentation of data and undertaking quality assurance.


• Good interpersonal skills with a proven ability to work constructively and supportively in a team environment.


• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to provide clear advice and guidance and convey complex, technical information clearly to a variety of audiences both in writing and verbally.


• Ability to plan and manage workloads, work to deadlines and adapt to changing priorities.


Prerequisites Required

• Proof of right to work in UK.


• To undertake a Disclosure Scotland application.


• Although Gaelic language is not a prerequisite it is a desirable skill in support of our commitment to our Gaelic Language Plan
  
  NatureScot offers some great benefits to reward and support you whilst you are working for us. Our benefits package includes the civil service pension scheme, a generous holiday leave allowance plus flexi time, and employee discount scheme. Visit the NatureScot website for further details.