About usMKO is Ireland's largest Planning and Environmental consultancy. Our team of 200+ experienced professionals work across the planning, environmental, ecology and related fields.We deliver challenging and complex projects for our clients and have an unrivalled track record of success. We add real value to our client's projects through our multi-disciplinary expertise and a broad range of nationwide experience. Our success and growth rests entirely on the knowledge, skills, ambition and integrity of our people, and we value these qualities most highly. We are forward-thinking and work with a can-do attitude, which nurtures people, ideas and opportunities to help maximise potential. Through our work, we aim to leave a legacy we can all be proud of.Job DescriptionMKO Research is leading the RE:HARRIER Project, a four-year, SEAI-funded Research, Development and Demonstration initiative. The project investigates how hen harriers (Circus cyaneus) interact with wind energy developments in Ireland. Given the species' conservation status and sensitivity to habitat change, this work plays a critical role in informing conservation strategies and the sustainable planning of renewable energy infrastructure. This role involves leading two work packages within the RE:HARRIER project.Nest Site Fidelity: The first focuses on identifying the factors that influence nest site fidelity in hen harriers, with the aim of understanding why and how territories shift over time and the implications for effective conservation strategies. The nest site fidelity work package has a defined analysis plan and timeline, which the candidate will be responsible for implementing.Wind Farm Repowering and Habitat Impact: The second will examine how wind farm repowering (the replacement of old turbines with newer configurations) may affect upland habitats, as many wind farms across Ireland approach the end of their 25-year lifespan. This work package aims to identify strategies to minimise changes to hen harrier habitats in and around wind farms. The repowering-focused package will require further conceptual development, and you will contribute to shaping the research questions and methods for this element of the work. You will lead the implementation of analyses, manage data workflows, and produce peer-reviewed manuscripts and/or technical reports based on both work packages.Key responsibilities Manage, prepare, and analyse nest and habitat datasets.Develop and implement statistical and spatial analysis approaches to assess nest site fidelity and habitat associations (e.g. GLMMs, distance metrics, KDE, RSFs)Conduct targeted literature reviews to support both work packages, collaborate with internal project teams, and participate in internal and stakeholder meetings.Contribute to shaping research questions and methodologies, particularly for the repowering-focused work package.Draft high-quality, peer-reviewed manuscripts and/or technical reports based on both work packages.What we're looking for in youThis role is perfect for you if you have with a strong background in ecological research and a passion for conservation. An MSc or PhD in ecology, conservation biology or a related field.Proficiency in statistical programming in R or Python, and experience applying Generalised Linear Mixed Models (GLMMs) in ecological research.Experience with spatial analysis using QGIS, ArcGIS, or equivalent software.Strong analytical skills and experience working with large ecological datasets.Strong critical thinking skills, with the proven ability to develop research questions, assess methods, and interpret ecological data.A demonstrated ability to write and publish in peer-reviewed journals.Ideally, you will also possess: Familiarity with raptor ecology, upland habitats, or the ecological impacts of renewable energy.Experience in research project coordination or managementApply nowWe actively embrace diversity and inclusion as fundamental elements of our workplace culture. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, recognising that a diverse team fosters innovation, creativity, and a more dynamic work environment. Please send a cover letter, CV, and contact details for two referees. In your cover letter, please clearly explain how you meet the required qualifications and skills listed in this job description.About us