Head of Science, Shuttleworth Botanic Garden
Shuttleworth Botanic Garden
| Company | Shuttleworth Botanic Garden |
| Category | Science & Research |
| Location | Santon |
| Remote | On-site (inferred) |
| Employment | Not stated |
| Level | Director |
| Salary | Not stated by the employer |
| Posted | 2 Feb 2026 |
| Last verified | 12 Aug 2026 |
| Source | Employer ATS (greenhouse) |
Description
CONTEXT
Concept work on The Shuttleworth Botanic Garden (SBG) in the Isle of Man started in 2011. The early years allowed us to identify key elements and objectives that will enable the accomplishment of this ambitious, international botanical landscape project.
While still in its infancy, the garden is now entering another exciting period of development and has recently become a member of Botanic Gardens Conservation International. Our extensive landscapes will provide areas in which to:
showcase and conserve plants from temperate biomes around the world;
study genetic diversity and the effects of climate change on plants; and
provide fantastic educational and recreational opportunities for a wide range of people.
Several large landscape construction projects are underway; involving earth moving and the creation of large, natural rock and water features. At the same time, other significant landscape areas are being designed.
We are ready to recruit our plant scientists, and a Head of Science is required to lead this fundamental phase of project implementation. Our collections, landscapes and academic partnerships will require time, specialist skills and dedication. As Head of Science, you will commit to this diverse, long-term project and be at the heart of realising the vision of creating a globally recognised botanic garden in the Isle of Man. This role requires an inspirational person who can create a high-performing culture in strong teams and foster collaboration both within the organisation and with external partners.
THE ROLE
The SBG seeks a dynamic leader who is driven by passion, expertise in plants and the importance of botanic gardens. An inquisitive mind, attention to detail and the ability to innovate will allow you to succeed in this role and help to develop the project and colleagues.
The SBG offers unrivalled opportunities for personal and professional development, achievement and experience. A strong element of legacy is associated with this position that will last well into the future, both in terms of personal achievement and contributing to a major new botanic garden.
The Head of Science will provide key strategic leadership and guidance of all plant science and conservation activities.
Serves on the leadership team of the SBG; participating in strategic and annual planning and organisational and departmental goal setting. Collaborates professionally, effectively and empathetically, wherever necessary, with colleagues in the leadership team and across the organisation to ensure that the garden's objectives are met.
Builds the reputation of the SBG as a globally recognised leader in plant and environmental science.
Participates fully in the ongoing evolution of the SBG Living Collection Policy.
Ensures that collections are maintained to high standards.
Contributes to the success of practices that develop, maintain and manage sustainably the garden in all of its aspects.
Ensures a tailored approach to designs, displays and other plantings in each biome of the garden that balances beauty and importance.
Ensures that collections are promoted and utilised for scientific and educational goals and guest experience.
Oversees development, application and periodic review of the plant curation and collections plan. Provides leadership and guidance in executing the collections plan, collections curation activities and maintenance of the collections.
Plays a lead role in fostering partnerships with local and international collaborators.
Represents the SBG to outside organisations and interacts with professional counterparts at other institutions.
Ensures support for activities that use the collections for education, research or conservation and ensures that usage is properly documented for fundraising and development purposes.
Provides support for cooperative research projects involving researchers inside and outside the SBG.
Develops and directs phytosanit