Vacancy: Science Coordinator

We’re searching for a Science Coordinator to work closely with the Science Director in the development and implementation of the science programme, including cyber-taxonomy, Biodiversity Centres, field operations, technology development, capacity development, science partnerships and representing Ocean Census at national and international science and ocean events.

We are looking for an individual with ambition and vision to implement an inclusive global science and conservation programme, with a special blend of scientific knowledge, programme management and partnership development.

KEY TASKS

Programme Management & Implementation

• Assist in the overall coordination and project management of Ocean Census science programme to ensure a robust coordination of science activities amongst all components of the project (science and expeditions, data, public engagement and capacity development/legacy) and efficient communication amongst groups globally.
• Assist in the establishment and continual review of Ocean Census science priorities in liaison with the management team.
• Assist Directors and other managers in developing activities in a coordinated manner globally.
• Ensure Ocean Census Equity Principles are applied in all science activities.
• Assist, support, coordinate and manage related capacity development initiatives during and after expeditions.
• Works alongside the management team (Expedition Manager, Communications Manager, Finance & Operations Coordinator) to support successful inter-departmental management and communications.

Stakeholder and Partner Development and Engagement

• Represent Ocean Census as a key spokesperson at selected science, industry and policy meetings at national and international level.
• Lead in management of marketing to science and academic stakeholders and partners supported by Science Director and communications team.
• At the direction of the Director and Science Director, lead the development and management of academic and related research partnerships (including with their appropriate field operations teams) including the onboarding process, participating in related major scientific / academic events / conferences / symposiums, management of partnership leads, proactive engagement of new partners.
• Establishing and maintaining the database of scientific partners including institutions and individual scientists, notably including the Ocean Census Taxonomist Directory.

Expeditions

• Support the development and implementation Ocean Census Flagship, Partner, Participant and Citizen Science Expeditions, including participation in field operations.
• Support the development and Ocean Census partner applications for additional expedition funding (e.g. through the Ocean Shot Programme).
• Assist/Lead in the co-development of expeditions/projects with host nations’ governments and academic community.
• Assist the Head of Expeditions, Science Director and senior scientists at the Ocean Census Biodiversity Centre in planning Ocean Census Expeditions and support the coordination of science teams on Ocean Census Partner and Participant Expeditions.
• Noting primacy of above responsibilities, participate in Ocean Census Expeditions and contribute to/lead scientific analyses and publication of scientific papers in coordination with the Science Director and other Ocean Census scientists.

Founding Partner Engagement

• Direct communication with the Founding Partners where needed to ensure Ocean Census develops and is implemented according to plan.
• Assist in writing the science contributions for the annual grant applications.

KEY ATTRIBUTES

• A background in marine biology preferably to Masters or Ph.D. level. Research experience in marine biodiversity or taxonomy is desirable.
• Experience in managing science programmes, project management and partnership development.
• Experience, developing and implementing strategies with tight budget management.
• A confident, proactive and independent self-starter able to work quickly, flexibly and responsively in a fast-changing environment.
• Highly organised, detail oriented and enjoy problem solving.
• Proven experience of successful project delivery and project development.
• Strong communication skills within a team, with stakeholders (science, academic, media, business, government, civil society) and with the media.
• Experience of engaging and managing international partners.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply for this position please send you cv with a covering letter explaining why you think you would be a good fit for this role to denise@oceancensus.org as soon as possible. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted quickly for interview and the appointment will made when a suitable candidate is found.

The application process could remain open until 18:00 BST, Friday 30th June 2023 at the latest, but could be closed earlier if a suitable candidate is found.

Start: As soon as possible from July 1st 2023

Location: Hybrid including days at Oxford HQ with UK and international travel including on expeditions for specific periods

Salary: £35,000-£40,000, based on experience

Contract: Full-time, permanent

Reporting to: Science Director

Working with: Expedition Manager, Communications Manager, Finance Coordinator