These positions would suit early career scientists looking to build a portfolio of research and graduate students Candidates should have a background and interest in one or more of the following thematic areas of research: Coral Reef Ecology and Restoration, Sustainable Fisheries, Recreational Fisheries, Coastal and Nearshore Habitats, Marine Debris, Biotelemetry, Sea Turtle Biology and Ecology, Elasmobranch Biology and Ecology.

The ideal candidate is well-organised, attentive to detail, a self-starter who takes initiative, 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 and Deep Creek Middle School. Research Associates work in a team environment with other research staff at CEI and report to the Director. Candidates should be excited about working at a non-traditional academic institution that believes in integrating education of every level into primary research.

Qualifications & Skills

• PhD in Biological Science or related field preferred, or MSc with 3 years + relevant research experience
• Experience working in an active field based research team
• Successful track record of designing, managing and executing multiple scientific projects
• Established track record of peer-reviewed publication and professional report writing
• Experience in grant writing and general fundraising
• Prior teaching experience, high-school preferred
• Experience handling and operating small boats
• Excellent public speaking and presentation skills
• Excellent computer skills and experience in statistical analysis
• Must tolerate a seasonal (very) hot climate, bugs, and isolated but tight-knit community

Responsibilities

Teaching

• Participate in Island School semester preparation, orientation and debrief
• Oversee student development of semester-long research project, which includes developing lesson plans and syllabi, delivering lectures and field classes, grading and feedback, meeting with parents during parent-teacher conferences held once a semester, and guide the student’s final project for the research symposium
• Produce reports and assessments of Island School students’ research

Research

• Maintain existing in-house research projects and develop new research initiatives
• Manage data generated by in-house research
• Maintain equipment associated with research projects
• Maintain and develop collaborations within scientific community
• Maintain and manage budgets
• Seek and assist in fundraising efforts
• Recruit, coordinate, train, educate, and manage research interns and volunteers
• Recruit, advise and manage graduate students
• Provide logistical support for visiting scientists
• Represent Cape Eleuthera Institute at local and international events/conferences
• Collaborate with national and regional NGO’s governmental groups

Outreach

• Deliver short courses for visiting educational programs, visitors and community groups
• Represent CEI at local and international events/conferences
• Generate project updates and manage research-related content on the CEI webpage
• Liaise with communications department to create popular media (articles, blogs, and press releases)

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary commensurate with experience
• Room, board and medical insurance
• 4 weeks of paid vacation per year
• Eligibility for matching retirement plan 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 an annual review, and the potential for extension depending on circumstance. Cape Eleuthera Institute operates year round and working hours vary depending on project needs but are typically Monday-Friday (40 hours/week), however, evening and weekend work will be required. Special events will require periods of time outside of normal working hours when staff have to be on site for extended periods.