Editor-in-Chief Kew Bulletin
Editor-in-Chief Kew Bulletin
We are looking for an experienced and motivated plant taxonomist with a proven publication record and an extensive network of international contacts, who has the vision and dedication to develop and deliver an imaginative strategic journal development plan for Kew Bulletin, and to maintain the high standards of quality of the journal.
The postholder should possess a strong sense of integrity and adhere to professional and scientific ethical standards, and be committed to supporting open science, widening access to research and EDI principles. In addition, the postholder has the communication skills and diplomacy to lead and develop the editorial board and liaise with authors, reviewers, the broader research community, the Editorial Advisory Committee, other staff in Kew Science, Kew Publishing, the publisher (Springer) and the Kew Bulletin Editorial Board.
We are looking for someone with previous editorial experience as an editorial board member, guest editor, associate editor or Editor-in-Chief, and is willing to serve as an ambassador for the journal.
The postholder will report to the Priority Leader for Accelerated Taxonomy. They will be accountable for the taxonomic outputs and excellence in leadership and management of people and budget. The successful candidate will become an integral part of the science community at Kew and will fully participate in the broader operations of the Science Directorate, Priority, and Team.
More details
The ideal candidate for this position should have a PhD degree in botany and previous editorial experience. They should possess a strong knowledge of plant (and fungal) taxonomy. Excellent management and communication skills are paramount, including the ability to write and present scientific outputs, as well as engage with the public and potential funders. Moreover, the candidate should demonstrate proficiency in raising research funds through successful grant applications, highlighting their ability to secure resources to support their scientific endeavours.
The post holder will develop and deliver of an ambitious vision and strategic direction for Kew Bulletin. They will lead editorial board meetings and other journal-related meetings, and report on the performance of the journal. They will be responsible for defining and maintaining high quality editorial standards and policies. This will involve among others reviewing the scope of the journal in consultation with the stakeholders; maintaining and developing a talented, diverse and international editorial board, including providing guidance to associate editors and advising on new associate editors as needed; continuing to expand the author and reviewer pools to include a diversity of perspectives, both in terms of international scope and in the inclusion of underrepresented groups; overseeing the peer review process and delivering decisions to authors in a timely manner; and ensuring the production / proofing process is executed in a timely manner.
In addition, the Editor-in-Chief will be expected to write editorials, feature articles and other material to address topics of importance to readers, and to promote the journal at conferences, through professional networks and on social media to increase its visibility and encourage submissions.
This role is based at Kew with the option of regular home working, subject to operational requirements.
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth.
We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably. We will achieve these goals by drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history.
Join us on our journey as protectors of the world’s plants and fungi.
The salary will be £43,123 - £46,591 per annum pro-rata, depending on skills and experience.
It is anticipated that interviews for this role will be held in the week commencing Monday 13th May 2024.
Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.
If you are interested in this position, please submit your application through the online portal, by clicking “Apply for this job”.
Please upload a copy of your research CV to support your application. This should include your publication and funding record, as well as any other relevant information to demonstrate your track record as a research scientist e.g. scientific honours and panel / committee memberships, PhD supervision etc.
In addition, you are asked to write a 2-page vision statement for the journal Kew Bulletin and upload this to your application. This vision should align to the Kew Science Strategy and Kew’s Manifesto for Change.
We are dedicated to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to interviewing disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.
No agencies please.