Research Associate Position - Shark Research and Conservation Program

Research Associate Position - Shark Research and Conservation Program

Position Description
The Shark Research and Conservation Program (SRCP) based at the Cape Eleuthera Institute (CEI), is seeking a Research Associate to assist with gener

al 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 all applications to: 6b6e+ac33@app.catchthebest.com (http://islandschool.catchthebest.com/apply/6b6e/ac33). We are collecting applications until the position is filled. The anticipated start date is February 1sh, 2013. We are a Bahamian equal opportunity employer.

About Shark Diver. As a global leader in commercial shark diving and conservation initiatives Shark Diver has spent the past decade engaged for sharks around the world. Our blog highlights all aspects of both of these dynamic and shifting worlds. You can reach us directly at sharkcrew@gmail.com.