Associate Editor (Data Integrity)

British Ecological Society

5d • Remote

About The Position

The British Ecological Society is seeking researchers to join Methods in Ecology and Evolution as Associate Editors (Code Integrity and Accessibility). This is a flexible role for someone interested in improving the clarity, transparency, and accessibility of code in ecology and evolutionary research. Role holders will support our mission to advance ecological and evolutionary 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 assignments.

Requirements

• Strong attention to detail and confidence working with at least one language used routinely by ecologists and researchers in evolution (R, Python, Julia)
• Familiarity with testing and validating code (e.g., through ROpenSci, CRAN, PyPI)
• An appreciation for the value and limitations of AI for writing and commenting code
• Ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and communicate clearly in writing
• Commitment to the BES values: equity, sustainability, collaboration, and integrity

Nice To Haves

• Interest in ecology and/or evolutionary biology
• Interest in STEM publishing and editorial processes.

Responsibilities

• Review code for clarity, completeness, and alignment with journal standards.
• Ensure authors provide accessible, clearly commented code and related documentation that supports its re-use and long-term value.
• Help authors strengthen responsible data handling, open science, and ethical research behaviour.
• Follow shared workflows and contribute to a positive, inclusive editorial environment.

Benefits

• Receive free BES membership for one year, then 50% thereafter
• 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 researchers working in UK 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed