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Careers in Conservation and Botanic Gardens

Many different types of people work in many different ways to support plant conservation.  For example, some conservationists focus on high-level policy making, whilst other conservationists may work in specific field projects.  There are as many routes into a career in conservation as there types of conservationist!  However, it is true to say that working for plant conservation is a very competitive field, and appropriate professional qualifications are nearly always needed.  For example, those working to cultivate rare plants for ex situ conservation, will have horticultural training, whilst those who research the properties of plants will be trained scientists and botanists.  If you are still at school, find a careers teacher or helpline, and talk to them about which options to pursue.  Sites such as www.Environmentjobs.com present a good selection of conservation, scientific and environment jobs in the UK, and give you an idea of the kind of skills needed.

Jobs & Vacancies.  Visit our jobs & careers section to see current vacancies in botanic gardens.

Get involved.  Why not consider donating your spare time by volunteering with your local botanic garden?  Many gardens gladly welcome assistance.  Use our Garden Search database to find your nearest garden.

Make a donation.  You can also make a donation to BGCI to help us to promote conservation.  Individual botanic gardens also welcome donations, or why not become a friend of your local garden?