Have you ever dreamed of follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwinbackpack on your shoulder and binoculars around your neck, discovering rare and, above all, unknown plant species? If the answer is yes, and if you also have a degree in botany and an unstoppable desire to travel, then this is the job for you.
The Cambridge University Botanic Garden (CUBG) is looking for a expedition botanista figure who will take care of organize and lead botanical expeditions around the world. We’re not talking about a trip out of town, mind you: the ideal candidate will have to be ready for anything, from camping in Kyrgyzstan to exploring rainforests in South America.
In addition to the satisfaction of contribute to the conservation of biodiversity and to enrich the CUBG collections, the chosen one will receive a salary of £44,263 per year. Not bad, right?
A dream job (with a few minor inconveniences)
“It’s a truly unique opportunity,” he told the British newspaper The Guardian Samuel Brockingtonprofessor of evolutionary biology and curator at CUBG. “The candidate will have the opportunity to observe how plants change around the world, carry out vital conservation work and assist in the care of our living collection of approximately 8,000 plant species“.
Of course, it won’t be all roses and flowers (that’s worth saying!). The expeditions will be intense and demanding, and will require a good dose of adaptability and team spirit. “You have to have a real sense of adventure, love travel and be comfortable working in different cultures,” Brockington emphasized.
In Darwin’s footsteps
And who better than Charles Darwin can embody the spirit of the adventure botanist? In 1831, the founder of CUBG, Professor John Stevens Henslowrecommended the young Darwin for the position of naturalist on board the HMS Beagle. During his journey, Darwin sent Henslow more than 1,000 plant specimenshelping to enrich the collection of the Cambridge Botanic Museum.
Today, CUBG is committed to protect the diversity of its collection ea respond to the climate emergency. “Climate change is taking a toll on many of our plants,” Brockington explained. “For this reason, our expedition botanist will have the task of collecting seeds and cuttings of species that can adapt to the climate of the future”.
Requirements and applications
But what are the requirements to become a expedition botanist? As well as one degree in botany and to one immoderate passion for plantscandidates must possess:
If you think you have what it takes to be perfect expedition botanistdon’t waste your time! Apply now here and get ready to experience an unforgettable adventure.
Who knows, maybe in a few years you will be the ones inspiring the next generation of adventure botanists!