The British Antarctic Survey (BAS), part of the Natural Environment Research Council, aims to undertake a world-class programme of scientific research, and to sustain for the UK an active and influential regional presence and a leadership role in Antarctic affairs.
There is currently a vacancy for a Scientific assistant (marine biology) to work at the applied fisheries research laboratory at King Edward Point (KEP) (www.antarctica.ac.uk/Living/Stations/South_Georgia.html) on the sub-Antarctic island of South Georgia. The successful candidate will assist with the laboratory and field-based research programme undertaken by BAS on behalf of the Government of South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands (GSGSSI) (www.sgisland.org). He/she will be required to undertake biological sampling of the inshore waters of South Georgia using a variety of techniques such as plankton nets and CTD recorders. Laboratory work will include the analysis of specimens from the inshore sampling programme and the commercial fishery. The work will be focussed on the commercially important Patagonian toothfish and mackerel icefish but will include research on a range of other associated species. Feeding ecology, distribution, growth and reproductive ecology are the main research areas where you will be expected to provide data that help to underpin the sustainable management of fish resources at South Georgia. You will be required to participate in ship-based surveys of the commercially important resource species of South Georgia and could be asked to spend time collecting data at sea on commercial fishing vessels. You will be responsible for maintaining live specimens within the controlled temperature facility and assist with the update of the scientific database. You will help to prepare data and reports as required and produce scientific papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals where appropriate.
The applied fisheries research laboratory at King Edward Point, South Georgia opened in March 2001 following the departure of the military garrison from the island. The station boasts well-equipped analytical and wet laboratories, a scientific library, modern computer facilities linked to the BAS headquarters in Cambridge and a controlled temperature facility for holding live specimens. A high quality, accommodation block provides comfortable living conditions for the personnel on station. Over winter the station has a BAS complement of eight: - two scientists and five support staff including a doctor and a two boatmen. The station personnel also provide logistical support for the GSGSSI Marine Officer and the South Georgia Museum located at the abandoned whaling station at Grytviken.
The post is based at South Georgia and is a fixed term appointment of 27 months (with approximately 24 months continuously at South Georgia). You will work alongside the zoological field assistant at KEP and report to the science manager at BAS, Cambridge. You will also be responsible for the implementation of Health and Safety regulations on the station and in the field. Qualifications: Applicants should have a good degree in marine biology, fisheries science or a related subject and have fieldwork experience of sampling techniques for marine fauna. They should also be numerate and possess computer/IT skills and have experience of data handling and analysis. Experience of marine aquarium systems would be an advantage. Previous experience of small-boat handling and working at sea is desirable. Duration: 27 months Salary: £19,829-£27,273 dependent on qualifications and experience. Please quote reference: BAS 40/08
Closing date for receipt of application forms: 11th May 2008.
Interviews will be held on 15th July 2008
On-line application forms and further information are available on our website at
www.antarctica.ac.uk/employment
These are also available from the Personnel Section, British Antarctic Survey, High
Cross, Madingley Road, Cambridge, CB3 0ET. Tel: (01223) 221508.
We welcome applications from all sections of the community. People from ethnic minorities are currently under-represented and their applications are particularly welcome.
You will need to be physically capable and medically fit to work in Antarctic conditions
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