Our Community
Team-working and a sense of community is at the heart of our culture. When you join Forest Research, you become part of an inclusive and international workforce. We believe that our strength as an organisation comes from the diversity of our staff, something we embrace, encourage and nurture.
We have an active sports and social club which brings colleagues together for relaxation, intellectual stimulation and exercise. It’s a great way to get to know each other better. The staff-led activities include everything from cooking, yoga, faith and book clubs to football, badminton and archery. If there’s an interest not catered for, then you can always suggest it!
Locations and Facilities
Most staff are based at one of our two main research stations, at Roslin near Edinburgh and near Farnham in Surrey. We also have staff based at other Forest Research locations across the country. While some roles will require regular access to laboratories or other Forest Research facilities, an increasing number of roles offer flexibility in terms of where and how you work. Some roles may offer the chance to be based anywhere in the UK, although occasional travel to one of our offices is usually required. Where we can be, we’re flexible, and happy to discuss non-traditional working patterns and / or blended working arrangements.
At Forest Research, you will be working in some beautiful locations with great facilities. Our main sites offer free tea and coffee, parking, shower rooms, electric vehicle charging points and bike sheds. We have built new offices and laboratories in Edinburgh and Farnham to create a modern working environment. Further work is planned across the Forest Research estate.
Alice Holt Research Station
Alice Holt Lodge, Farnham, Surrey GU10 4LH
Alice Holt was established in 1946 as the Forestry Commission’s first forest research station. With its modern offices and laboratories, and attractive grounds set within Alice Holt Forest and the South Downs National Park, it offers an unparalleled working environment.
Northern Research Station
Roslin, Midlothian EH25 9SY
Our Northern Research Station (NRS) was established by the Forestry Commission in 1970. Set in a semi-rural environment within the University of Edinburgh’s Easter Bush Campus, and with excellent public transport links to Edinburgh, the facilities at NRS have recently been significantly upgraded to deliver a modern and inclusive working environment.
Your Career at Forest Research
As part of our ongoing commitment as a responsible and inclusive employer, we actively encourage opportunities for career development at all stages. These include:
We are committed to growing a skilled community of scientists to progress tree and forestry-related research and enhance national capability.
Through collaborations with host institutions, like universities and other research organisations, and with research funders, we support internships and postgraduate opportunities including studies leading to Masters degrees, PhD and EngD qualifications.
Our apprenticeships are unique, offering a high level of academic and industry accreditation, combined with experience in the workplace. They provide industry recognised qualifications to postgraduate level. These are work-based qualifications offered in key roles where there is a real need to develop our capability for the future.
We also participate in other Civil Service wide schemes and initiatives, such as the Fast Stream, the Great Place to Work for Veterans initiative and Prison Leaver Recruitment
Whatever your role, there is a Civil Service profession to support your development and career progression, whether that is within Forest Research, the Forestry Commission, or the wider Civil Service. Find out more here.
Staff Networks
We have a number of staff networks to support everyone in Forest Research. Our aim is to ensure that FR offers a safe space to build communities, share stories, and experiences, and offer suggestions and ideas. Our networks include:
Rainbow Canopy
Champions our LGBTQ+ community, our LGBTQ+ allies and those who’d just like to learn more.
REACH
Race Equality and Cultural Heritage – a group that champions talent, specifically from underrepresented ethnic groups, seeking to build an inclusive workforce that reflects wider society.
Disability, Neurodiversity and Carers
Gives support to staff who have a disability (visible or hidden, including neurodiversity and learning difficulties) and those who balance work with caring responsibilities.
Women’s Staff Network
Champions gender equality, highlighting issues that women encounter working in forestry and science, through regular talks and webinars.