Full-time permanent (40 hours per week)

Chester Zoo is an international conservation organisation operating the UK’s largest and most popular zoo, as well as many wildlife conservation and research projects around the world. To help us in our mission to conserve biodiversity worldwide, we are recruiting a Conservation Scientist to join our diverse teams working within in the zoo and overseas.

The Conservation Scientist will be responsible for research project management, facilitating and supporting our research activities across several of our major field projects, for example in South and SE Asia, West Africa, Latin America and in the UK. They will develop research projects and apply best approaches to address the questions and challenges faced in our field projects that will inform action, improve conservation impact and build the zoo’s scientific reputation. This will include overseeing research assistants and students in our partnerships with several universities in the UK and NGOs overseas. Writing reports, papers, articles and contributing to communications for our public audience, as well as presenting research at conferences, will form a regular part of the job. Some field work overseas is also expected, working with field teams on data collection, and providing quality control and technical support as needed.

Candidates must hold a PhD in a conservation-related science with around Outstanding scientific research, problem solving and analytical skills will be essential, with high proficiency in statistical analysis and methodological design. Candidates should demonstrate a strong track record in peer-reviewed scientific publications. Some experience supervising research assistants is expected, and experience working in developing countries and working with various cultures an advantage. The candidates should demonstrate strong writing and presentation skills, work well in teams and be willing to travel overseas for some field work as necessary.

This position is based in the UK at Chester Zoo, but is likely to involve some field work and travel. The salary is £30,227 per year and the position reports to the Head of Conservation Science.

To apply for this position, please provide your current CV and a covering letter stating why you believe you should be considered for the Conservation Scientist role.

The deadline for applications is Friday 18th December 2015 with interviews expected to be held around 6th January 2016. For any questions about the role please contact Dr Alexandra Zimmermann, Head of Conservation Science, Chester Zoo, at a.zimmermann@chesterzoo.org.