Scientist

Job Description

The Research department seeks a Scientist to join our team at Holden Forests & Gardens (HF&G). The Scientist will conduct research at the intersection of basic and applied science concerning plants and their environments. Research areas may include, but are not limited to, urban ecology, forest health, plant pathology, forestry, forest management, or climate resilience. The scientist will also translate research findings into practical solutions for present and future ecological challenges and will communicate findings to the public. Approximately 70% of the scientist’s time will be devoted to research, 20% to scientific communication and public outreach, and 10% to lab management and departmental duties.

The scientist is expected to develop their own research in a relevant field, publish in scientific journals, present talks at scientific meetings and public forums, obtain extramural funding, and serve as an academic advisor to graduate students. The scientist is expected to participate in academic and public outreach activities at HF&G. The scientist will collaborate with relevant Holden programs, potentially including Conservation, Community Forestry, Horticulture, and/or Education. Adjunct appointments at collaborating universities are possible and encouraged.

Holden Forests & Gardens connects people with the wonder, beauty and value of trees and plants, to inspire action for healthy communities. HF&G strives for a welcoming workplace where everyone feels that they belong. This role is based at the Holden Arboretum at the Long Science Center in Kirtland, OH with occasional cross-campus representation at the Cleveland Botanical Garden in Cleveland, OH and potentially the Leach Research Station in Madison, OH.

About Us

Holden Forests & Gardens (HF&G) is made up of two of Northeast Ohio’s most important environmental and cultural institutions — Holden Arboretum and Cleveland Botanical Garden — whose mission is to connect people with the wonder, beauty, and value of trees and plants, to inspire action for healthy communities. The 12th largest public garden in the country, HF&G has over 17,000 member households and more than 380,000 annual visitors who enjoy inspirational and educational experiences. HF&G is making a positive impact in the region and beyond through urban greening and forestry initiatives, environmental research, nature-based educational programs, and world-class visitor experiences at its two campuses.

Duties & Responsibilities

Conducts research in an appropriate field of biology (70%)*
Develops a research program in their field that incorporates Holden Forests and Gardens’ natural areas and/or collections.
Communicates research results to national and international science forums via publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals, oral presentations and posters.
Obtains extramural funding through grants, foundations or other sources.
Participates, and takes leadership roles, in professional scientific activities, e.g. serving as reviewer for scientific journals & federal granting agencies and organizing scientific meetings.
Serves as primary advisor or committee member for graduate students, as appropriate, in support of research objectives.
Collaborates with scientists at Holden Forests & Gardens and other institutions.
Practices according to highest standards in research and scholarship, record-keeping, and laboratory and field safety, including hazardous materials.
Prepares relevant reports and makes presentations accordingly.

Outreach and science communication (20%)*
Leads development of educational and visitor outreach activities within the Research Department, sometimes in conjunction with Education and Guest Services departments.
Fosters scientific collaborations with other institutions, both formal and informal.
Seeks external sources of funding such as grants, donations, and royalties and oversees Research fundraising in conjunction with CEO, Finance, and Development departments.
Establishes adjunct appointments at a regional university and collaborative research projects.
Fosters external positioning of Holden Forest & Gardens research through public relations efforts.

Lab management and organization service (10%)*
Ensures staff training in the following areas:
safe laboratory and field practices
generally-accepted ethical standards in research and scholarship
record-keeping, including archiving of samples and data, both written and electronic
grant writing
public speaking
project management
management and mentorship of other staff, students, and volunteers
Oversees quality control testing of methods and equipment used in analyses of samples.
Complies with all aspects of laboratory safety, safety stations, safety manuals, safety SOP and MSDS sheets.
Serves on HF&G committees, as needed.
Supports Marketing and Development departmental efforts, as needed.
* The percentage of time spent on each duty is approximate

Education and Experience

Ph.D. in an appropriate field of biology, ecology, horticulture, or forestry.
Strong record of research publications, scientific outreach, and professional service.
Demonstrated and recognized leadership in their field of research.
Aptitude and experience as public advocate and interpreter of scientific research.
Aptitude for administration of budgets, personnel, and other aspects that relate to leading a research enterprise.
Knowledge in plant biology, ecology, forestry or other mission relevant area of plant science.
Ability to work independently on diverse tasks and meet deadlines.
Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, to the general public and specialized professional audiences.
Ability to represent Holden Forests & Gardens to its supporters and constituents credibly, enthusiastically, and professionally.
Ability to manage budgets and oversee proper purchasing procedures.
Ability to provide ensure goals for staff are being met and perform performance evaluations.
Appreciation for the importance of the work of arboreta, public gardens, and museums.
Quantitatively and analytically skilled, and attentive to detail.
Proficient use of Microsoft 365 products, specifically Teams, Outlook (email and calendar), Word, Excel, SharePoint, and OneDrive.

Additional Information

Some of the reasons Holden Forests & Gardens (HF&G) is a great place to work!
We offer Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits | Paid Time Off | 8 Paid Holidays a year | 403(b) | Employee sponsored life insurance, long term disability and short-term disability | Work in a beautiful environment within Greater Cleveland | Discounts in our stores & cafes | Free parking at both campuses anytime we are open | Free admission to many Northeast Ohio Museums | Free Employee Assistance Program | Much More!

Application Instructions

Apply:
Holden Forests & Gardens values an authentic sense of belonging at all levels of the organization, including staff, volunteers, Board of Directors, and visitors. HF&G believes that working toward an equitable culture that values all perspectives enriches the work environment, helping achieve our goal to build a greener and healthier Northeast Ohio. We are working to create and sustain a supportive environment and sense of belonging for people of all backgrounds. HF&G also provides regular DEAI training for staff, managers, volunteers and Board to create a welcoming and accessible environment. Research shows that women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that an applicant meets 100% of the qualifications for a given role. Therefore, if much of this job describes you, then you are highly encouraged to apply for this role. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Qualified applicants must submit a CV, cover letter, statement of research interests, and contact information for three references through the link below. Review of applications will begin on November 1, 2024.

Application Link: https://holdenfg.org/career-and-internships/?gnk=job&gni=8a78879e91e3138f01922042f5ce5e9d

Holden Forests & Gardens (Holden Arboretum and Cleveland Botanical Garden) is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to hiring a diverse and talented workforce. We seek skilled, knowledgeable, and experienced individuals to join our staff and enhance our reputation as one of the country’s foremost public gardens.