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Temporary Fixed Term contract - 13 months

We currently have an exciting vacancy for a Conservation Scientist to join our Science Department on a temporary basis.

The role:

Programme Support:

• You will contribute to the delivery of the Population Biology Research Programme and stewardship of the programme’s established partnerships including internal and external scientific and zoo bodies, such as universities, research institutes, government agencies, NGOs, professional bodies, global zoo associations and private sector organisations.
• With support from the programme leader, you will lead the delivery of your own novel research projects which contribute to scientific capacity and reputation of the programme. Disseminate a portion of the programme’s science outputs including publications and external engagement with the conservation and science community.
• You will participate in the review process to ensure programme related research activities comply with Chester Zoo’s research and ethical policies and follow the guidance from relevant bodies of authority to ensure legal compliance (e.g., IUCN, EAZA, BIAZA, CITES, DEFRA, Home Office licencing etc.).

Conservation Training:

• You will support the programme leader to deliver and/or co-deliver scientific training in Population Biology to support the delivery of the zoo’s Conservation Training Academy, providing comprehensive and innovative learning and training for the conservationists of the future.

Scientific Dissemination, Reputation and Credibility:

• With guidance from the programme leader, you will lead on prioritised research projects within the Population Biology Research Programme by working collaboratively both internally and externally to design and deliver novel research projects. Effectively problem-solve science challenges using expertise, industry knowledge and experience, and lead on project design and data analysis.
• You will ensure scientific outputs and findings of your own research are disseminated to key stakeholders (including both scientific and non-scientific peers) through various outlets including peer-reviewed and non-peer reviewed publications, public speaking, dissemination at suitable external meetings to influence and advise external professional committees/boards and marketed via Chester Zoo’s communications teams.
• You will ensure research projects support the wider programme and achieves conservation impact, which results in evidence-based decision making and implementation that enhances Chester Zoo’s overall scientific credibility.

The Package

• Temporary fixed term contract for 13 months (anticipated to start in August 2023)
• 40 hours per week, worked 08:30-05:00 Monday-Friday.
• £29,021.21 per annum
• 33 days annual leave (pro-rata)
• Staff pass so you can visit the zoo during your time off, plus multiple complimentary tickets for your friends and family
• Healthcare plan and employee assistance programme
• Discounted gym membership
• Discounts on cinema tickets, restaurants, high street shops and more via Perks
• Pension scheme with generous employer contributions up to 9%

Our requirements:

• A Masters in conservation biology or related field
• Demonstrated ability to innovate, lead, resource and deliver research projects on time and to a high standard
• Evidence with data analysis and statistical packages relevant to the field
• Ability to present information clearly and concisely in verbal presentations and written communications, including scientific writing and media communications to a variety of stakeholders
• Ability to maintain and influence partnerships and collaborations to enable project delivery
• Proven ability to effectively work in and contribute to a team environment
• Have knowledge of zoos and their conservation function

Although not essential, the following would be desirable:

• Evidence of effective training and/or student supervision
• Evidence of peer-review publications
• Evidence of bioacoustic analysis
  

Interviews are expected to take place week commencing 10th July 2023.

Please be aware that we reserve the right to close our vacancies earlier than the listed date if we have received a high level of applications. We would recommend that if you do wish to be considered that you complete the application as promptly as possible as interviews will be taking place whilst the advert is live.

We’re not just an amazing, award-winning visitor attraction that’s home to 20,000 incredible animals inside 128 acres of stunning gardens. We’re not just the UK’s most popular zoo. We’re a major wildlife charity that’s committed to the recovery of endangered species, globally. And, as the world faces an extinction crisis, we’re making a hugely significant contribution to conservation at a time when it’s needed most. We are Chester Zoo and we prevent extinction.