Call for Expressions of Interest: Fungal Ecologist (Consultant Role)
Refungium – Coed Talylan Land Trust
Coed Talylan Land Trust is seeking expressions of interest from early-career or emerging mycologists for a paid Fungal Ecologist consultancy role within the Refungium project – a two-year programme combining fungal conservation, woodland restoration, community science, and habitat enhancement.
This is an ideal opportunity for a young mycologist looking to develop applied field experience, contribute to real-world conservation work, and shape the UK’s first community-led fungal reserve.
This role is subject to funding. We are currently in the process of applying for the grant that would cover the consultancy fee, and EOIs are being gathered in advance to identify suitable candidates.
About the Role
The Fungal Ecologist will provide specialist ecological guidance across the project, including:
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Helping design fungal surveys and selecting regional survey sites.
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Advising on woodland restoration actions that support fungal biodiversity.
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Leading the creation of the project’s Species and Habitat Action Plans.
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Contributing to the development of a digital and physical fungarium.
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Working alongside a Field Mycologist, CTLT, volunteers, and partner organisations (BIS, LERC Wales).
The role is flexible and part-time (around 1–2 days per month) and offers practical ecological experience across data collection, community science, woodland management planning, and applied fungal conservation.
Who We’re Looking For
We welcome interest from early-career mycologists, postgraduate students, recent graduates, field naturalists developing specialist skills, or anyone building experience in fungal ecology. A strong enthusiasm for fungi, woodland ecology, and conservation is essential; formal qualifications are welcome but not required if equivalent experience can be demonstrated.
Why This is a Unique Opportunity
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Work on a live conservation site transitioning toward temperate rainforest conditions.
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Gain experience in PAWS restoration, survey methodology, and metabarcoding approaches.
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Collaborate with an active local volunteer network, professional mycologists, and ecologists.
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Shape biodiversity action plans and contribute to Wales’s emerging fungal conservation work.
How to Express Interest
Send a short expression of interest (300–500 words) outlining your background, your interest in fungi and woodland ecology, and what you hope to gain from the role to info@coedtalylan.org.
We encourage applications from young and emerging mycologists, people new to consultancy work, and those underrepresented in ecological science.
