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Ecologist / Biodiversity Researcher / Educator

ABERI · magaliesburg, Gauteng, South Africa

Imported listingfull-timeabout 1 month ago

About The Role

  • The opportunity
  • We are looking for an ecologist or biodiversity scientist who wants a career combining teaching, fieldwork, ecological research, biodiversity monitoring and practical conservation.
  • Your year will have two complementary parts
  • 4–5 months: Environmental education
  • Teach ecology, Life Sciences and environmental science to school groups.
  • Lead field-based environmental activities, biodiversity investigations and practical lessons.
  • Teach children how to observe, measure and interpret biodiversity.
  • Lead school programmes, camps and outdoor learning experiences.
  • Develop engaging activities that connect curriculum science with real ecosystems.

The rest of the year: Specialist work

  • Design and coordinate ecological research projects.
  • Develop biodiversity monitoring methods and field protocols.
  • Conduct or coordinate field surveys and citizen-science programmes.
  • Work with biodiversity data, quality control, analysis and interpretation.
  • Investigate plant–animal interactions, insects, butterflies, moths and ecosystem processes.
  • Contribute to restoration projects, reports, proposals and scientific publications.
  • Collaborate with universities, conservation organisations and research networks.

Qualifications & experience

  • A Bachelor's degree in ecology, zoology, botany, environmental science, conservation biology or a related field is beneficial.
  • Postgraduate study is advantageous for research-intensive work.
  • Relevant field, research or conservation experience will be considered.
  • Demonstrated ability to teach or communicate science to non-specialists is essential.

Core skills

  • Ecological field skills and species observation.
  • Research design, sampling and monitoring.
  • Data management, quality assurance and interpretation.
  • Scientific writing and literature review.
  • Project planning and time management.
  • Clear verbal and written communication.
  • Teamwork and stakeholder communication.
  • Independent problem solving and initiative.
  • Ability to work outdoors and in variable field conditions.

Additional skills that would be beneficial

  • GIS and spatial analysis.
  • Statistics or R/Python.
  • Bioacoustics, camera traps or eDNA/metabarcoding.
  • Butterfly, moth, plant or other biodiversity monitoring.
  • Scientific publication experience.
  • Grant writing and research funding.
  • Experience with iNaturalist or other citizen-science platforms.

Competitive Salary – A competitive salary relative to the responsibilities, experience and skills required for the role.

Research & Professional Development – Opportunities to contribute to hands-on environmental research projects, both locally and through international research initiatives, gaining valuable experience in biodiversity, conservation, and ecological research.

Practical Field Experience – Hands-on exposure to biodiversity monitoring, ecological restoration, plants, animals and field-based projects.

Multidisciplinary Team & Career Growth – Work alongside scientists, educators and developers, with opportunities to develop new skills and take on additional responsibilities.

On-Site Benefits – Meals will be provided during in-person working days, and accommodation can be provided when an overnight stay is required for work.

Full-Time or Part-Time employment is available.

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