Conservation on islands is critical in abating the global extinction crisis. Islands can also be important experimental arenas for developing innovative approaches to address major environmental challenges – approaches that if successful can be exported not just to other islands but also to continental systems. The Nature Conservancy seeks a two-year term Research Fellow to advance cutting-edge science that can inform and drive an agenda of island conservation actions, across and beyond California. The Research Fellow will participate on multi-disciplinary teams to develop and advance a scientific research agenda benefiting and leveraging the Conservancy’s island assets – all with the aim of informing, influencing, and inspiring investment in accelerating conservation on islands. The Research Fellow will report to the California Director of Conservation Science.
The Research Fellow will:
- Develop and publish a scientifically credible “business case” for predator eradication on islands, including social and institutional benefits.
- Partner with TNC island teams to fortify scientific and data foundations of decisions pertaining to nontraditional conservation interventions, including translocations and molecular methods.
- Partner with TNC island teams to develop and advance strategies to accelerate island conservation.
- Advance best practices in technology and statistical methods to improve detection and monitoring of invasive species, especially those at very low abundance.
- Advance and disseminate best practices in pest management and eradication.
- Foster best practices in decision analysis, to incorporate multiple values and risks.
- Cultivate strategic relationships with scientists, managers, agencies, partners, foundations, and policy makers.
- Support fundraising for island-related conservation initiatives.
- Support policy development in areas of expertise.
- Produce peer-reviewed and other publications to advance island conservation.
RESPONSIBILITIES & SCOPE
- Work in a large business unit, and across various business units and levels of the organization.
- May conceive, support, and implement strategic initiatives.
- Act as a technical liaison within and outside of the organization.
- Collaborate with a wide range of conservation partners to identify research needs, present technical concepts and support fieldwork.
- Provide training for internal and external colleagues on ecological and conservation scientific principles.
- Must work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, in hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.
- Record of peer reviewed publications in scientific journals.
- Experience directing a major program of strategic importance and leading a multi-disciplinary team.
- Experience with building strategic relationships.
- Experience fundraising and/or writing grants and research proposals.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Ph.D. preferred and 7-10 years related experience.
- Ability to diagnose complex problems and identify solutions.
- Excellent written, spoken and graphical communication skills.
- Demonstrated effectiveness in fundraising
- Ability to operate within budget guidelines to ensure sound financial performance.
- Network of influential scientists and managers in the fields of island conservation and eradication practice.
- Experience working in and knowledge of California island ecosystems and restoration efforts.
- Experience working in and knowledge of tropical Pacific island ecosystems and restoration efforts.
- Extensive relevant publication record in high-impact journals.
The Nature Conservancy offers competitive compensation, 401k or savings-plan matching for eligible employees, excellent benefits, flexible work policies and a collaborative work environment. We also provide professional development opportunities and promote from within. As a result, you will find a culture that supports and inspires conservation achievement and personal development, both within the workplace and beyond.