Senior Conservation Research Assistant

As the Senior Research Assistant (SRA), you will lead SEED’s field-based conservation research efforts, overseeing the daily operations of our research camp and contributing to the development, implementation, and reporting of SEED Madagascar’s research programme. Working closely with the SCRP Coordinator and both international and national staff, you will manage data collection, ensure the quality and integrity of research activities, and play a pivotal role in the analysis and reporting of findings to donors and the broader conservation community.

Additionally, you will provide leadership and pastoral support to short-term volunteers, ensuring they receive appropriate training, guidance, and oversight during their time in the field. Your role is critical in driving SEED’s mission to enhance conservation outcomes through rigorous research, effective team management, and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

Location: Fort Dauphin, Madagascar

Timeframe: 18 months with potential to extend

Terms and conditions: Local stipend of 1,800,000 Ar per month to support with accommodation costs (field-based food/transport provided); contribution to flights and insurance.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Research Leadership
   • Lead and manage the research team in the field, ensuring effective data collection and high research standards.
   • Lead field-based research on key species and ecosystems, including setting up transects and collecting relevant ecological data.
   • Contribute to the development of new research projects and conservation initiatives, helping to identify priority areas for future work.
   • Support in the expansion of SEED’s research program by fostering relationships with other conservation organisations and researchers.
2. Data Management & Reporting
   • Ensure data is accurately collected, cleaned and organised in accordance with research protocols.
   • Collaborate with the SCRP Coordinator in data analysis and the preparation of research reports for both internal use and external donors.
   • Contribute to the development of research papers, presentations, and other publications for the international conservation community.
   • Work with the SCRP Coordinator to identify opportunities for research collaborations and funding.
   • Assist in the preparation of proposals and reports for research funding and project development.
3. Volunteer Coordination & Training
   • Support in the day-to-day management and pastoral care for short-term volunteers, ensuring their well-being and smooth integration into the field team.
   • Lead training sessions for volunteers, ensuring they understand and follow research protocols, data collection methods, and safety procedures.
4. Collaboration & Team Management
   • Work closely with both the international and national research staff to ensure effective communication and team cohesion.
   • Foster a positive working environment, promoting collaboration and sharing of knowledge between staff and volunteers.
   • Ensure that all fieldwork is carried out in accordance with SEED’s health, safety, and ethical guidelines.
5. Community Engagement & Outreach
   • Support the SEED Madagascar team in engaging with communities, including facilitating meetings, conducting surveys, and helping with outreach initiatives.
   • Provide clear interpretation and translation when necessary, ensuring effective communication between international staff and local communities.
6. Logistics & Operations
   • Assist in managing the logistical aspects of field research, including equipment, transport, and accommodation for staff and volunteers.
   • Oversee the day-to-day operations of the research camp, ensuring smooth logistical coordination and resource management.
7. Policy & Compliance
   • Ensure compliance with SEED’s policies, including safeguarding, anti-corruption, and whistleblowing procedures.
   • Participate in ongoing training to promote adherence to SEED’s health, safety, and ethical standards.
8. Additional Tasks
   • Assist with other tasks as requested by the Director of Programmes and Operations, Conservation Research Coordinator, or Senior Research Assistant within the scope of this role.

Personal specification:

• A Masters degree in a conservation-related field, or a first degree with at least two years of practical experience in field-based research
• Proven experience in handling, cleaning, and analysing data, with proficiency in statistical analysis using programming software (e.g., R, Python, or similar)
• Experience in field data collection, including the use of GPS and/or GIS for mapping and spatial analysis
• Experience in compiling conservation reports, academic papers, or similar documents, with the ability to present data and findings clearly and professionally
• Specialist knowledge of either primatology, herpetology, botany or environmental education is desirable
• Able to or willing to learn to safely handle and identify reptiles and amphibians
• Previous experience of collecting data with a working knowledge of GPS and/or GIS
• Hold a current First Aid certificate
• Demonstrate an understanding of and commitment to SEED Madagascar’s ethos and approach and be a good ambassador for SEED Madagascar at all times
• Have passion, curiosity and motivation for the job and the ability to enthuse others
• Have the ability and desire to work with teams from different economic and cultural backgrounds and across multiple language barriers
• Have the ability and desire to build capacity and share skills across cultures
• Demonstrate proven ability to recognise and appropriately deal with challenging situations
• Demonstrate an awareness of and comfort with increased social and professional responsibility, working at all times with cultural sensitivity and respect
• Demonstrate the ability, social skills and confidence to give clear guidance and support to other members of the team in respect of the philosophy and procedures of SEED Madagascar in order to protect both their safety and the reputation of the NGO
• Be punctual and be able to work to tight deadlines in an organised manner and to a high standard
• Have a flexible and patient attitude
• Have excellent problem-solving skills
• Be able to work both independently and as part of a team