Job title:
Senior Conservation Research Assistant
Responsibilities:
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Research Leadership
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Lead and manage the research team in the field, ensuring effective data collection and high research standards.
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Conduct field-based research on key species and ecosystems, including setting up transects and collecting relevant ecological data.
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Contribute to the development of new research projects and conservation initiatives, identifying priority areas for future work.
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Foster relationships with other conservation organisations and researchers to expand SEED’s research programme.
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Data Management & Reporting
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Ensure accurate data collection, cleaning, and organisation in line with established research protocols.
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Collaborate with the SCRP Coordinator in data analysis and reporting for internal use and external donors.
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Contribute to research papers, presentations, and other publications for the international conservation community.
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Identify opportunities for research collaborations, funding, and proposal development.
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Volunteer Coordination & Training
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Provide day-to-day management and support for short-term volunteers, ensuring their well-being.
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Lead training sessions for volunteers on research protocols, data collection methods, and safety procedures.
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Collaboration & Team Management
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Collaborate with both international and national research staff to maintain effective communication.
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Promote a positive working environment, encouraging teamwork and knowledge sharing among staff and volunteers.
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Ensure all fieldwork adheres to SEED’s health, safety, and ethical guidelines.
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Community Engagement & Outreach
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Assist with community engagement efforts, including meetings, surveys, and outreach initiatives.
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Provide interpretation and translation when necessary for effective communication between staff and local communities.
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Logistics & Operations
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Help manage field research logistics, including equipment, transport, and accommodation.
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Oversee daily operations of the research camp to ensure smooth logistics and resource management.
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Policy & Compliance
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Adhere to SEED’s policies, including safeguarding, anti-corruption, and whistleblowing procedures.
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Undergo training to maintain health, safety, and ethical standards.
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Additional Tasks
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Undertake other tasks as assigned by the Director of Programmes and Operations, Conservation Research Coordinator, or Senior Research Assistant within the scope of this role.
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Requirements:
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A Master’s degree in a conservation-related field, or a first degree plus at least two years of practical field-based research experience.
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Proven experience in data handling, cleaning, and analysis, with proficiency in statistical software (e.g., R, Python).
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Field data collection experience, including the use of GPS and/or GIS.
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Experience compiling conservation reports or academic papers, presenting data clearly and professionally.
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Specialist knowledge in primatology, herpetology, botany, or environmental education (desirable).
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Willingness to safely handle and identify reptiles and amphibians.
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Working knowledge of GPS and/or GIS.
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A current First Aid certificate.
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Commitment to SEED Madagascar’s ethos, with passion and motivation.
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Ability to work across different cultures and language barriers, sharing skills and knowledge.
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Problem-solving skills, flexibility, and patience.
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Strong organisational skills and ability to meet deadlines.
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Confidence in giving guidance and support to the team, ensuring safety and preserving SEED Madagascar’s reputation.
Location:
Fort Dauphin, Madagascar
How to apply:
Interested applicants should send a CV and a covering letter in English, explaining their suitability and motivation for this position, to SEED Madagascar Director of Programmes and Operations, Lisa Bass, via email at lisa@seedmadagascar.org.
Contact details:
SEED Madagascar
Website: www.madagascar.co.uk
Email: lisa@seedmadagascar.org
Application Deadline: Monday 28th April 2025 at 23:59 GMT.
Please note: AI generated cover letters and recruitment exercises will not be processed.
Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis. Long-listed applicants will complete an exercise, followed by an initial interview with Madagascar-based staff. Short-listed applicants will interview with the London team. SEED Madagascar encourages equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace.
