Associate Editor (Data Integrity)

Volunteer role: Associate Editor (Data Integrity)
Organisation: British Ecological Society - Journal of Ecology
Term: 3 years
Closing date: 24th July 9am BST
Location: Remote, anywhere in the world

The British Ecological Society is seeking researchers to join Journal of Ecology as Associate Editors (Data Integrity). This is a flexible role for ecologists interested in improving the clarity, transparency, and accessibility of ecological research. Role holders will support our mission to advance ecological science and ensure robust, ethical, and inclusive publishing.

This is a new, volunteer, part time role, based at the role holder’s institution. We predict this role will take on average two hours a month, with some variability depending on timing of data assignments.

Responsibilities

• Support data transparency: Review datasets for clarity, completeness, and alignment with journal standards.
• Check metadata and documentation: Ensure authors provide accessible, well‑structured metadata that supports reproducibility.
• Identify gaps or issues: Flag missing information, inconsistencies, or unclear methods to the editorial team.
• Promote good practice: Help authors strengthen responsible data handling, open science, and ethical research behaviours.
• Work collaboratively: Follow shared workflows and contribute to a positive, inclusive editorial environment.

Requirements

Essential

• Background in ecology or a related discipline.
• Strong attention to detail and confidence working with ecological datasets.
• Clear, accessible written communication.
• Commitment to the BES values: equity, sustainability, collaboration, and integrity.
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines.
• Experience with data management, coding, or reproducible research.
• Familiarity with open data platforms (e.g., Dryad, Zenodo).

Desirable

• Interest in ecological publishing and editorial processes.

Benefits

• Receive free BES membership for one year, then 50% thereafter (see membership benefits)
• Qualify for free registration to the BES Annual Meeting.
• Attain evidence of your standing and authority in your field of research which can contribute to academic career progression.
• For UK ecologists working in universities, an AE role is likely to contribute to institutional submissions to the Research Excellence Framework 2029 as an indicator of a positive research culture.

To apply, please submit the following via our recruitment portal

Covering letter (max. 1 page) answering:

1. Your motivation for applying
2. What skills and experience do you bring that would help you in the role

Most recent CV (max. 2 pages)

Equality and Diversity form (This optional information helps us monitor and improve the diversity of our recruitment. It won’t affect your application or be used in shortlisting.)