Overview of the role:   

Surrey Biodiversity Information Centre (SBIC) collects, manages and disseminates information on the flora, fauna and habitats of Surrey. SBIC is managed as a partnership project, hosted by Surrey Wildlife Trust, and seeks to hold as comprehensive a record of the wildlife of Surrey as possible.

SBIC receive many records including historic datasets, which need help being digitised. By taking part you will help to collate and input species data into SBIC’s systems whilst being supported by SBIC staff.

Time commitment:  

Thursdays - during working hours for a flexible duration.

Locations:

This role is primarily desk based in an office and will require contact time with SBIC staff at Surrey Wildlife HQ, Pirbright.

What’s involved:

We have a range of digitisation projects available. You’ll be reviewing typed or handwritten species records and surveys and will help to put this information into a digital form.

Activities include:

• Transferring species card index information into spreadsheets.

• Validating scientific names to match modern standards.

• Checking locations and grid reference of species sightings.

• Converting excel data into SBIC input formats.

Among other exciting data opportunities

Skills and experience:  

You will need competent computer skills for this role;

• Ability to use the Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Microsoft Excel.

• A keen interest in species and data.

• An eye for detail.

• An understanding of grid references and the binomial system.

Training:

Each project will have dedicated training at the start, to set the role up.

Further task based training can be provided by SBIC staff depending on the project.

During office hours, an SBIC member of staff will be available to provide support.

By volunteering, you could:

• Experience a behind the scenes look at how a Local Environmental Records Centre operates.

• Help to mobilise species data for real conservation purposes.

• Be part of a enthusiastic and dedicated small team.

Next steps: 

To take part, you’ll need to register as a volunteer. Once registered, you’ll receive further information about the role at SBIC.

Age guidance:

• Volunteers must be aged 16 or over.

• Volunteers aged 16/17 can attend unaccompanied but must complete a parent/guardian consent form before taking part.

Equality, diversity and inclusion:

Surrey Wildlife Trust is committed to an inclusive and diverse volunteer programme where everyone feels welcomed, valued and supported to take part.  

Apply now