Assistant Research Faculty - Shark & Ray Conservation

About Us

The Cape Eleuthera Institute (CEI) is the hub for research and innovation at The Island School in South Eleuthera, The Bahamas. As part of an organization devoted to research, education, and conservation, CEI seeks to create a connection between people and the environment as a path toward a more sustainable future. We are internationally recognized for our environmental research and education programmes, facilitated by outstanding access to a range of tropical habitats.

The Island School is a not-for-profit organization founded to create and support transformational educational experiences with the vision of leadership effecting change, on the island of Eleuthera. The diverse educational initiatives, including our Island School Semester and Summer Term, our Deep Creek Middle School, our Elementary Learning Center, and our Community Engagement and Partnerships, deliver unique educational journeys in partnership with the authentic and meaningful work our organization undertakes in research, sustainable development and innovation at the Cape Eleuthera Institute.

Position Summary

The Assistant Research Faculty will play an essential role in advancing our conservation and research goals, working closely with lead researchers to support projects on shark and ray conservation. This role involves conducting field research, supporting educational programming, and engaging with both students and the local community. This position requires flexibility, enthusiasm for environmental conservation, and a commitment to teamwork in a dynamic and close-knit setting. This is a 1-year position with opportunity for extension based on availability of grant funding after the first year.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Research Support: Assist in conducting and documenting field research on shark and ray conservation, maintaining research equipment, and managing data collection and analysis.
• Educational Engagement: Co-teach research classes each semester, working with students to foster environmental stewardship and scientific curiosity.
• Public Outreach: Contribute to the preparation of technical reports, publications, and social media content to promote research findings and engage the broader community.
• Logistical Support: Help coordinate logistics for research projects, including organizing fieldwork, maintaining inventory for research supplies, and providing support to visiting scientists and graduate students.
• Mentorship: Assist in mentoring interns, providing them with hands-on research experience and support in their learning and development.
• Community Engagement: Represent the organization in local outreach activities, helping build connections between research and community conservation goals.

Skills & Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent experience) in biological or environmental science is required; a Master’s degree is a plus.
• Experience: Prior experience in field research, specifically involving sharks and rays, including fishing, handling, tagging and husbandry. Teaching experience is a strong asset.
• Communication Skills: Fluency in English is required, with strong written and verbal communication skills; confidence in adapting teaching methods to diverse educational audiences.
• Analytical Skills: Competence in data collection and management, experimental design, and scientific writing is a plus.
• Technical Proficiency: Basic skills in boating operations; experience with small boats and a formal boating qualification is preferred.
• Adaptability: Flexibility to work in remote settings and thrive within a small, close-knit community.
• Commitment to Mission: Dedication to the values of The Island School and Cape Eleuthera Institute, with a passion for promoting sustainable environmental practices.

Priority Consideration

This role offers an opportunity to grow professionally in conservation science while making meaningful contributions to marine research and environmental education. Candidates who are self-motivated, detail-oriented, and eager to learn are encouraged to apply.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary commensurate with experience
• Accommodation and utilities, with on-campus meals in our dining hall
• Comprehensive medical insurance, and dental reimbursement up to $300
• Life insurance ($25,000 policy)
• 26 days of paid leave: 10 vacation days, 11 national holidays and 5 sick days
• Professional development opportunities

Schedule

This is a full-time, fixed-term position with a duration of one year starting as soon as the right candidate is available, subject to annual renewal with satisfactory performance evaluation and available grant funding to support the position. The Island School operates year-round and working hours vary depending on 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 must be on site for extended periods.  The successful candidate should expect, and desire, to work a variable and mission driven schedule.

SDG Impact