In the context of the project: ‘Enhancing coastal protection, biodiversity and ecosystem services through better knowledge and engagement in mangrove rehabilitation in Suriname and Guyana’ is there vacancy for a

Research Scientist / Technician in Environmental Monitoring

Project context:

Coastal protection through mangrove conservation involves both understanding where species of mangrove are located and their site-specific failure thresholds; and stakeholders’ consensus on benefits and strategies of coastal-protection implementation.

Key Duties & Responsibilities: Based on the strengths and experience of the successful candidate, the position will take selected responsibilities in a range of activities. Examples of these activities include:

• To schedule, organise, and deliver the collection of environmental data from sensors in the field, apply quality assurance and local archiving of the data in Suriname and subsequent transfer of the data to the UK for permanent archiving.
• To maintain and troubleshoot field-based equipment, as required and in close consultation with Dr Ryan Pereira and the PDRA Environmental Monitoring and Communication at Heriot Watt University.
• Identify demand and participate in additional training on environmental monitoring analysis and interpretation delivered by Heriot Watt University, as required.
• To establish close and constructive work relationships with the full project team, thereby contributing to maximise the scientific outputs from natural and social sciences.
• To contribute to and help manage outreach activities led by the social sciences work packages at Durham and Suriname, including presentations at community workshops, roundtable discussions and the ‘end of project’ symposium.
• To participate in the drafting of project academic papers, with a focus on environmental monitoring results, as applicable.

Please note that this job description is not exhaustive, and the role holder may be required to undertake other relevant duties commensurate with the grading of the post. Activities may be subject to amendment over time as the role develops and/or priorities and requirements evolve. At times, a flexible working schedule may be required to meet key duties and responsibilities, including periods of extended field work.

Education, Qualifications and Experience

Qualifications: Educated to BSc level or higher in a relevant subject (environmental and sustainability sciences) or equivalent.

Criteria:

Essential

1. Practical experience in field-based monitoring of environmental variables, including a demonstrated portfolio of equipment set up, maintenance, trouble shooting, data acquisition, quality assurance, local storage and secure data export.
2. Documented understanding of climate-environment interactions.
3. Willingness for fieldwork, at times over longer periods and potentially out of business hours.
4. Confident communicator of technical, and (optional scientific) aspects of environmental monitoring.
5. Computer literate and technically competent in the set up and maintenance of technical equipment.
6. Evidence of good team player and interpersonal skills.
7. Demonstrate initiative and problem-solving skills.
8. Dependability, reliability and consistent ability to produce high quality/ quantity of work
9. Dutch native speaker with excellent English speaking, reading and writing ability

Desirable

1. PhD (or equivalent qualification or relevant professional experience) in natural sciences
2. Documented understanding of the links between natural and social sciences and science communication for audiences in academia and non-academia (including local communities).
3. Practical experience in the local cultural, social and environmental context of Suriname and/or Guyana is favourable.
4. Experience and interest in working internationally, with different and often contrasting social, cultural and economic conditions.
5. Experience in environmental data curation.
6. Experience in preparing scientific data for scientific writing of academic publications.

Contract: Full-time (40 hours per week), fixed term for 24 months, anticipated start June 15, 2024.

How to Apply: Applications can be submitted until midnight on Friday the 31th of August 2024, to the following email addresses:

• Drs. M. E. Achthoven (email: recruitment@uvs.edu)
• Dr. S. Naipal (email: Sieuwnath.naipal@uvs.edu / naipals@yahoo.com)
• Dr. I.Bovolo (email: isabella.bovolo@durham.ac.uk)

When applying, please include a CV and cover letter and other relevant documentation addressing these selection criteria.

Contact for enquiries: Potential candidates who wish to discuss the post informally can contact:

• Dr. S. Naipal (email: Sieuwnath.naipal@uvs.edu / naipals@yahoo.com)
• Dr. I. Bovolo (email: isabella.bovolo@durham.ac.uk)