Senior Conservation Scientist- Population Biology

We currently have an exciting vacancy for a Senior Conservation Scientist to join our Science department on a 12 month fixed term basis, to work within our Population Biology Research Programme. This research programme focuses on population sustainability of both ex-situ and in-situ populations of threatened animals and plants. This role will have a focus on spatial modelling of populations in human-wildlife conflict areas. You will support the Lead Conservation Scientist on ensuring Chester Zoo maintains the highest external reputation and credibility as a world-leader in one of the zoo's specialised areas of scientific innovation and research excellence. Support with delivering growth, coherence, and engagement with science stakeholders and ensure programme staff and students are engaged, high performing and focused on effectively translating scientific outputs to maximise conservation impact to achieve Chester Zoo's conservation strategies and mission. Programme Support : Support the Lead Conservation Scientist on developing and delivering the Population Biology programme's annual tactical plan and stewardship of the programme's established and new 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. In line with the programme tactical plan, deliver 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. Participate in the review process 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 : Support the Lead Conservation Scientist on scientific training in one of the Zoo's areas of scientific expertise to enable the delivery of the zoo's Conservation Training Academy, providing comprehensive and innovative learning and training for the conservationists of the future. Funding : Support the Lead Conservation Scientist on the development of grants and donations with academic partners and the fundraising team to increase the income base for research and scientific training for one of the core areas of scientific expertise, and to be accountable to external funders for delivery of targets and impacts. Scientific Dissemination, Reputation and Credibility : Lead within one of Chester Zoo's core scientific programmes in a defined and prioritised area of expertise by working collaboratively both internally and externally to design, deliver, and supervise novel research projects as agreed with the Lead Conservation Scientist. Ensuring scientific outputs and findings of 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. Ensure research projects support the wider programme and achieve conservation impact which results in evidence-based decision making and implementation that enhances Chester Zoo's overall scientific credibility.

• PhD in a relevant field
• A minimum of two years' practical experience post-PhD working as a research scientist in a relevant field
• Extensive scientific knowledge, expertise and credibility in the relevant specialism
• Ability to establish credibility and lead change at various levels to influence conservation decision making
• Demonstrated ability to innovate, lead, resource and deliver multiple research projects concurrently on time and to a high standard
• High proficiency with advanced statistical software, such as R or equivalent software relevant to the field and extensive experience with the analysis of complex datasets
• Extensive experience with Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and spatial modelling
• Evidence of effective academic supervision, mentoring and training of students
• Evidence of peer-review publications
• 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 manage budgets effectively and evidence of successful funding applications
• 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 :
• Experience with formal line management is desirable
• A multidisciplinary understanding of the dynamics of human-wildlife conflict is desirable
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 may take place whilst the advert is live.

We are Chester Zoo, and for nearly 90 years, we have been a leading conservation and education charity, and an amazing, award-winning visitor attraction. We're also a team of passionate, talented, enthusiastic and expert people, doing everything we can to prevent extinction, from caring for animals to discovering new conservation ideas, and giving our visitors an inspirational day out. If you think you can help us to achieve that, then we'd love to hear from you.

The Package
• Permanent contract
• 40 hours per week
• Salary of £38,958.52 per annum
• 33 days annual leave (pro-rata)
• Opportunity for flexible / hybrid working
• 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%