Research Officer

Overview

The Research Officer will be part of the Development Directorate at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, where the focus is on strengthening fundraising activity that supports the organisation’s internationally recognised work in plant science and conservation.

The Research function helps create reliable prospect pipelines, supports thoughtful prospect management, and carries out due diligence in line with Kew’s policy. In this position, you will contribute to fundraising that is informed by research and insight.

Key duties

Your work will include preparing concise briefings on both potential and existing donors and funders, maintaining database-related processes, and helping coordinate the Research team’s workflow.

What you will develop

This position offers a strong learning opportunity for someone wanting to build a career in fundraising. Working alongside experienced professionals, you will gain exposure to major capital initiatives and strategic fundraising priorities, while strengthening practical capabilities that are valuable in the non-profit sector.

You can expect to develop skills in handling and interpreting qualitative information to support income goals, research and writing, data and system use, project coordination, and collaboration across teams.

Candidate profile

Kew is seeking someone with solid research and writing ability, and experience gathering information and presenting it clearly and accurately for different audiences. The role is well suited to someone beginning a career in fundraising or research, as well as applicants from other sectors who bring transferable research experience.

You should be comfortable working with large volumes of qualitative data, building effective working relationships, and using a central CRM system with care and precision. Strong attention to detail, good data discipline, and the ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple projects are important. Clear communication, teamwork, and genuine enthusiasm for Kew and its mission are also essential.

Work arrangement

The role is based at Kew, with the possibility of regular home working depending on operational needs.

Interview timing

Interviews are expected to take place during the week commencing 13 July.

About Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is a globally respected plant science institute, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a major visitor destination. Its mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the benefit of people and the future of life on Earth.

Kew is working to respond to the unprecedented extinction crisis and help build a world in which nature is protected, valued by everyone, and managed sustainably. It pursues this goal through scientific research, extensive plant and fungal collections, a worldwide network of partners, and its gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, supported by more than 260 years of history.

Benefits

The benefits package includes continuous learning opportunities, generous annual leave, flexible working, an Employee Assistance Programme, and additional wellbeing support such as a cycle-to-work scheme and discounted gym membership. Other benefits include a competitive pension, staff discount scheme, free entry to many national museums and galleries, and access to Kew and Wakehurst gardens.

Equity, diversity and inclusion

Kew says its strength comes from the diversity of its people and the perspectives they bring. The organisation aims to support every colleague to reach their full potential and offers opportunities to grow and progress. Its commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion is ongoing and informed by staff and the communities it serves. As a disability confident employer, Kew is working to remove barriers and create an inclusive workplace for everyone.

Additional information

No agencies please.