Chester Zoo
Research Officer
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Research Officer (Maternity Cover)
We have an exciting opportunity for a Research Officer (maternity cover) to join our Science Department. The role is a full-time fixed term contract with an option for some working from home and flexibility in hours.
The Role
This role will establish and maintain processes to ensure that research and conservation projects, both internally and externally, are rigorous and ethically robust. Support the Head of Science with all aspects of ensuring effective monitoring, recording and reporting of science activities. Build and maintain effective mechanisms to approve and monitor the progress of research projects and outcomes to ensure that Chester Zoo is recognised as a centre of excellence for research and provides the evidence base that enables us to achieve the greatest conservation impact and exceptional plant and animal care.
We’re looking for someone who can:
- Manage the review and approval process for all internal and external scientific research requests by gathering information to critically evaluate the scientific reliability and feasibility considerations of project proposals. Ensure projects are compliant with internal scientific policies and follow the guidance from relevant national legal and governing bodies of authority. Inclusive of delivery of studentship and partnership agreements and contracts to protect the interests of the organisation.
- Manage the animal and human research ethical approval process for all research and conservation projects. Ensure projects are compliant with internal ethical policies and follow the guidance from relevant national legal and governing bodies of authority. Present projects on a case-by-case basis to Chester Zoo’s Ethical Review Committee for support.
- Manage all external and collaborative research biological sample requests. Work with relevant staff across the organisation to gather, store and ship samples in compliance with relevant national and international legal and governing bodies of authority. Inclusive of preparing relevant permits, packaging and accompanying paperwork such as Material Transfer Agreements.
- Manage the accompanying research, ethics, training and biological sample databases and filing systems to support effective recording of all activities for auditing and reporting purposes. Additionally support, where relevant, research planning for the organisation by providing accurate records of current research activities.
- Effectively monitor organisation wide scientific outputs (e.g. peer-reviewed publications, presentations) for a variety of organisational reporting purposes.
- Support with general research and student enquiries through the management of the research inbox and working with relevant staff across the organisation to fulfil science related requests as required.
- Where agreed, contribute to the zoo’s scientific credibility and dissemination by engaging in collaborative research projects, facilitate access to the zoo for research purposes and coordinate logistics or supporting in the delivery of science training opportunities such as delivering lectures to support the Conservation Training Academy.
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The Package
- Fixed term contract (maternity cover)
- £30,750 per annum based on a 40 hours per week
- Working hours will be 40 hours per week (Monday to Friday) but option for some working from home and flexibility in hours
- 33 days annual leave (pro rata) plus the option to buy or sell up to 5 days
- Staff pass so you can visit the zoo during your time off, plus multiple complimentary tickets for your friends and family
- Cycle to work scheme
- 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%
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Our Requirements
- Experience in applied conservation science, normally including a Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience. We recognise that candidates may have developed the required knowledge and skills through different combinations of education, training and professional experience.
- Ability to present information clearly and concisely in verbal presentations and written communications to stakeholders at all levels
- Evidence of project management and reporting of project outputs
- Ability to focus on detail and accuracy is essential
- Demonstrated ability to innovate, lead, resource and deliver projects on time and to a high standard
- Proven ability to work in and contribute to a team environment
- Sound working knowledge of computer software systems and databases eg Microsoft Office Suite, specifically experience using Microsoft Excel
- A strong commitment to animal health and well-being and to conservation
- A working understanding of higher education structures, processes and procedures
Although not essential, the following would be desirable:
- A working understanding of agreement and contract drafting
- Evidence of student supervision and training
- Understanding of peer-reviewed publications process
- Knowledge and experience of zoo-based research and zoo operations
Secondments would be considered for this role if appropriate. Please ensure that you have spoken with your manager and gained their approval regarding this before applying.
Please be aware 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 shortlisting and interviews may be taking place whilst the advert is live.
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