Job advertisement 

Grumeti Fund Trust is looking for a highly motivated and qualified Tanzanian to fill the following position:

Position: RISE Research Scientist (1)

Job purpose

The responsibility of the RISE Research Scientist, within the Grumeti Fund Trust, is to develop, expand, and enrich the research conducted at Research and Innovation for the Serengeti Ecosystem (RISE). This includes developing an independent research program in their area of expertise, supervising graduate students, creating tangible connections between research outputs and conservation practice, and providing the necessary support to RISE staff and affiliates.

Key responsibilities

• Develop personal research program which is applied in nature and supports managers working in the Serengeti ecosystem and Tanzania more broadly
• Communicate results across departments and with key stakeholders via written reports and oral presentations.
• Serve as a main or co-supervisor for 3-4 graduate students per year who are working in the Serengeti ecosystem
• Provide field supervision and oversight for additional graduate students who are conducting field work in IGGR and using RISE facilities
• Oversee day to day activities of a small team of junior RISE staff
• Assist with research facility, program, and visiting researcher logistics as needed when the ordinarily responsible RISE staff are on leave
• As time and interest allows, assist in the development of and / or participate as an instructor in RISE training programs
• Do other work-related duties as directed by the RISE Head Scientist
• Responsibly oversee RISE resources including budgets, sponsored programs, technology, assets, and staff as necessary.
• From time to time participate in or support Grumeti Fund’s fundraising initiatives through write ups, reviews, and special activities on a need basis.

Qualifications  

• PhD in field directly related to conservation or ecology/environment. PhD ABD status will be considered.
• Prior research experience involving independent field work in remote conditions required
• Track record communicating results to scientists and practitioners (i.e peer-reviewed journals, international and in-country conferences and workshops, gray and white literature)
• Demonstrable interest in applied research and linking conservation science with practice
• Demonstrable dedication to supporting the development of early career scientists and conservationists
• Experience in using technology and innovative tools to support research and / or conservation objectives
• Passionate about maintaining and contributing to a collaborative atmosphere built on teamwork and respect. Must support, engage, and communicate openly with staff and collaborators.
• Proficient in data analysis software like R, ArcGIS, QGIS or similar.
• Clean Class C license
• Fluent in Kiswahili and English
• High level of proficiency in coding language like R, python, or java would be advantageous.
• Previous experience supervising graduate students would be advantageous
• Previous staff management experience would be advantageous

Competencies required   

• Passionate about contributing to a more diverse and equitable conservation and research communities
• Curious mindset, ability to listen, learn, and value the perspectives of those with different skillsets and backgrounds
• Able to navigate and work effectively with diverse group of public and private stakeholders
• Tech savvy and interested in exploring and trialing new modes of data collection and or the practice of conservation.
• Demonstrable interest in learning new skills and continuing development as a research and conservation professional
• Strong work ethic, trustworthy and reliable
• Keen attention to detail and highly organized
• Able to prioritize tasks and complete work efficiently
• Self-motivated and able to work independently
• Desire to work in a diverse, fast-pace, growth-oriented environment
• Must enjoy working in both the field and office – anticipated split is 30% field and 70% office with flexibility on time allocation based on independent research requirements