Shark Research Associate

IMPORTANT:  This Advertiser has requested that applicants MUST be National Residents / Valid Work Permit-holders.  Other applicants need not apply.

 

The Shark Research and Conservation Program (SRCP) based at the Cape Eleuthera Institute (CEI), is seeking a Research Associate to assist with general program management, including assisting with and/or overseeing all field research, education and outreach initiatives conducted by the program.  The SRCP, founded in 2006, is based at the Cape Eleuthera Institute research facility situated on Cape Eleuthera, Eleuthera, The Bahamas.  Over recent years the program has expanded its portfolio of elasmobranch related projects to include every major marine ecosystem in the greater Caribbean region and incorporates a diverse range of research techniques to approach predominantly applied conservation science questions.

This position would suite a recently graduated masters or PhD student wishing to expand their field experience and skill set.  The ideal candidate is well-organized, attentive to detail, a self-starter who takes initiative, demonstrates stewardship, works well in adverse field conditions, has a passion for environmental conservation and a love of teaching students of all ages.  They must be willing to stretch beyond a traditional job description as they live and work closely with the local community and The Island School (www.islandschool.org) and Deep Creek Middle School (www.dcmsbahamas.org).  Research Associates work in a team environment with other research staff at CEI and will report to the SRCP Program Manager. Qualified Bahamians are strongly encouraged to apply.

Qualifications & Skills

• MSc in Biological Science or related field preferred, or BSc with 3 years relevant research experience
• Extensive experience with elasmobranch field techniques including capture based surveys and safe handling practices
• Experience with grant writing and fund raising
• Experience in experimental design, and biological statistics
• Strong writing and presentation skills supported by a good record of peer reviewed publications and conference proceedings
• Prior teaching experience
• Excellent computer skills which include experience in Excel, Word, PowerPoint and statistical packages
• Experience handling and operating small boats
• Data collection, organization and management experience
• Must tolerate a seasonal (very) hot climate, bugs, long field days and isolated but tight-knit community

Responsibilities

Research

• Assist with and/or manage a variety of SRCP research projects
• Manage a variety of databases pertaining to several long term SRCP projects
• Assist with development of new projects
• Assist with the development peer reviewed publications
• Oversee the maintenance of all SRCP research equipment
• Hire, coordinate, train, and mentor SRCP research interns and volunteers
• Provide logistical support for visiting scientists

Teaching

• Develop and deliver two (2) elasmobranch related semester-long Island School research projects each year
• Participate in Island School semester preparation, orientation and debrief
• Develop and document lesson plans and syllabi
• Deliver lectures and field based classes
• Grade and provide feedback for core research assignments
• Meet with parents during parent-teacher conferences held once a semester
• Mentor and guide the student’s final project (Scientific Poster & Presentation) for the end of semester research symposium
• Produce end of semester student reports

Outreach

• Work with the Educational Programs team to present SRCP research efforts to visiting groups and the local community
• Deliver up to two (2), week long, “Shark Week” programs each summer which are designed to give high-school students hands on research experience
• Represent CEI at local and international events/conferences
• Generate project updates and manage SRCP related content on the CEI webpage
• Liaise with the communications department to create popular media (articles, blogs, press releases)

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary commensurate with experience
• Room, board and medical insurance
• 4 weeks of paid vacation per year
• Eligibility to enrol in retirement package after two years of service
• Professional development opportunities
• The opportunity to be part of a fast growing, young, vibrant research and education organisation that provides multiple opportunities for networking, and interaction with other NGOs, regional government organizations and academic institutions

Schedule

This is a full-time position requiring a minimum one year commitment with the potential for extension depending on circumstance.  CEI operates year round and working hours vary depending on project needs but are typically Monday-Friday (7:00 am – 4.30 pm), however, evening and weekend work will be required on occasions.  Special events in the CEI/Island School calendar will require periods of time outside of normal working hours when staff have to be on site for extended periods.

Application

Please submit a resume, cover letter, and a writing sample that addresses the following question: How can applied research initiatives enhance education and outreach efforts? Submit all of these materials in PDF format detailing your interest and experience. Please send to: 6b6e+6798@app.catchthebest.com. We are collecting applications until the position is filled. The anticipated start date is February 1^sh, 2013. We are a Bahamian equal opportunity employer.