Participating researcher is hunting for treasure (7)

I believe the answer is:

cherish

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'for treasure' is the definition.
(synonyms)

'participating researcher is hunting' is the wordplay.
'CHERISH' is hidden in amongst the letters.
However, I'm unsure how this is indicated.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for cherish that I've seen before include "Love" , "Nurse" , "Nurture (a hope)" , "Protect and treat with affection" , "Hold dear, value greatly" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.

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