Research Scientist - Shark/Turtle 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. The Island School’s Cape Eleuthera Institute is internationally recognized for its environmental research and education programmes, facilitated by outstanding access to a range of tropical habitats.

Job Summary

We are looking for a graduate scientist (masters or higher) to continue our successful shark and sea turtle conservation research program, supporting The Bahamas as a world-leading shark sanctuary. This role comes with considerable scope to develop an independent  program of research that produces tangible conservation benefits for The Bahamas, while engaging our students with hands-on field work. We are particularly interested in research that considers the relationship between the ecology of these marine vertebrates and human activities as pertains to their conservation, although we remain open to proposals for innovative research in any field of their ecology.

Our Research Scientists are the engines of innovation in the organization, leading research projects that address practical challenges of sustainable development, while engaging students in meaningful work that fulfils our vision of ‘leadership effecting change’.

Research Scientists are expected to take initiative, be well-organized and resilient, with a capacity to independently generate novel research questions and build support for their work. You should be comfortable working in challenging field conditions, have a passion for environmental conservation and a love of teaching students of all ages. You must be willing to stretch beyond a traditional job description as you live and work closely with other programs at The Island School, as well as the local community.

Research Scientists work in a team environment with other research staff at CEI and throughout The Island School and report to the Director. You should be excited about working at a non-traditional academic institution that believes in integrating education of every level into applied research.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of educational programming in specialist discipline, including an Island School research class each semester
• Lead an independent research program in specialist discipline, including fundraising and developing new collaborations
• Oversee equipment maintenance, purchasing and budget for assigned projects
• Write and publish research papers and technical reports as well as other forms of public dissemination of your work, including preparing social media content
• Assist with the recruitment, management and mentoring of junior staff and interns
• Provide logistical support for visiting scientists and graduate students
• Represent the organization at national and international events

Other Duties

Staff with additional specialist skills that may benefit other parts of the organization will be expected to assist activities in these areas and compensated accordingly, for example:

• Dive professionals (PADI Divemaster/Instructor or equivalent; Free diver Instructor)
• Certified boating, sailing or kayaking instructors
• Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) or Wilderness Medicine specialists
• Certified school teachers

Additional duties will be tailored to your qualifications/experience and accounted for in your compensation package, based on an assessment by your manager.

Please note that this job description does not contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that may be required of the employee for this job. Duties and  responsibilities may change at any time, with the needs of the organization.

Skills and Qualifications

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

• Education – Master’s degree (or higher) in biological or environmental science
• Experience – Prior teaching experience, preferably across different age groups
• Communication Skills – Confident in public speaking and verbal presentation of work. Can adapt communication style to different educational audiences. Proficient in scientific and grant writing.
• Analytical Skills – Expertise in experimental design, data analysis and curation
• Boating – Experience with handling small boats, preferably with formal qualification (Bahamas Class B Captain’s Licence, RYA Level 2 Powerboat or equivalent).
• Adaptability – Able to survive and thrive in a small and tight-knit community located in a remote part of The Bahamas.
• Commitment to Organizational Mission – this position requires commitment to the wider mission and values of The Island School.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary commensurate with experience
• Accommodation and utilities
• On-campus meals when dining hall is open
• Comprehensive medical insurance
• Dental reimbursement up to $300
• Life insurance
• 10 paid vacation days and 11 paid National holidays
• 7 paid sick days
• Eligibility for matching retirement plan after two years of service
• Professional development opportunities

Schedule

This is a full-time position with annual review.  The Cape Eleuthera Island School and its related divisions operate 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.

Application

• Applicants should submit the following in PDF format through our Hiring portal: https://ceis.bamboohr.com/jobs/view.php?id=135
• Letter of application that states career interests, why you would like to work for the Cape Eleuthera Institute and your relevant experience and qualifications for the position.
• Current curriculum vitae
• Three references (to include name, address, telephone number and email address) familiar with the applicant's work.

We are a Bahamian equal opportunity employer.