* Provide advice to the NatureScot Board and staff on scientific matters, contribute to NatureScot's research work within the context of the Corporate Plan, and advise on novel and contentious science issues;
* Undertake peer reviews contributing to the quality assurance of reports and other scientific material;
* Review the scientific basis for the notification of Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), and any consents, when requested to do so by the Protected Areas Committee, including cases in which NatureScot is obliged to consider representations made by interested parties, and to advise the NatureScot Board as appropriate; and
* Contribute to in-depth investigations of particular topics as required by the NatureScot Board or when requested by the Deputy Director of Nature and Climate Change.
We are also looking to appoint members to our scientific Expert Panel. These members are called on, as required, to provide advice on scientific matters (especially in relation to novel and contentious work), to peer review NatureScot research reports and to contribute to in-depth investigations of specific research themes that underpin NatureScot's programme of work. Time commitment Members of the SAC should be prepared to attend Committee meetings regularly, and to give a minimum of 10 days per annum to play a full part in such meetings and in other activities of NatureScot. Work is ongoing throughout the year, rather than concentrated in any particular time period. The time input of Expert Panel members varies from several to up to ten days per annum. Meetings The SAC holds plenary meetings twice a year (in Edinburgh, Inverness or Battleby, near Perth or by video conference) and on such other occasions as required by its Chair and the NatureScot Board. Where specialist advice is required on some topics (e.g. marine issues, species-land management interactions, or protected areas proposals) members may meet with staff to determine a view. The SAC provides advice on sensitive topics to the Board and Scottish Government and its operating procedures reflect this role. Occasionally, sub-groups of the SAC are formed to advise on specific topics. These include reviews of NatureScot work, or specialist inputs to major projects. The Committee is made up of up to seven members: the Chair and up to six other members. In addition, a number of experts serve on a scientific Expert Panel. The Chair of the SAC is drawn from the NatureScot Board. Remuneration Committee and Panel members receive remuneration of a daily fee of £285.91 which is non-pensionable. This daily fee is subject to annual review. The appointment carries reasonable expenses, including travel, childcare and carer expenses. Length of appointment The term of appointment is normally three years with the possibility of re-appointment, subject to evidence of effective performance and satisfying the skills, knowledge and personal qualities required on the Committee at the time of appointment (up to a maximum of eight years). Members' performance is appraised annually by the Chair of the Committee. Code of Conduct In carrying out their public service, individual Committee Members are expected to comply with the Codes of Conduct and rules adopted by NatureScot on matters such as the use of public funds, conflicts of interest, confidentiality and the misuse of information for personal or political gain and generally, at all times act in good faith in the best interests of NatureScot. NatureScot's Standing Orders and Ways of Working for the Board, Committees and Senior Leadership Team set out in detail the role and responsibilities and the Code of Conduct for Committee Members. This document is available on the NatureScot website. Training and development New Members receive induction training and supporting material covering their roles and responsibilities, and accountability and governance arrangements. There is also an ongoing appraisal process which will gives Members an opportunity to discuss their performance with the Chair and highlight any developmental or training needs which may have been identified.
Specific knowledge and expertise
* A clear understanding of the state of nature and the underlying causes of change, and NatureScot's policies; and
* Experience of having contributed to in-depth investigations of research areas specified below.
Leadership and team working
* Effective strategic scientific leadership, providing advice on strategic scientific matters or projects which are novel or contentious;
* Experience and ability to challenge effectively and constructively, and influence decision making, within a committee or other team setting; and
* Experience of effective communication skills, including presentation skills, to deliver messages to diverse audiences.
Applications are particularly welcomed from people with a background in one or more of the following research areas:
* Marine ecology and marine renewables
* Animal and plant ecology (including animal welfare and deer management)
* Genetics
* Land use and management
* Social and behavioural sciences (especially human behaviour, health and economics)., Proof of right to work in UK, and be living 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.
Nature is vital to us all, so it's important that NatureScot represents the people of Scotland. The more diverse our workforce is, the more effectively we can connect everyone with nature. We encourage applications from candidates of all ages and genders, people from ethnic minority groups, people with disabilities, and the LGBTQ+ community.