The Department of Zoology is looking to appoint a Post-doctoral Research Associate in Conservation Science on a fixed term contract for 2 years.

The trafficking of wildlife to cities to meet non-essential demand for wildmeat poses a major threat to many Central African species. The research conducted by the post holder will feed into the design and implementation of interventions to improve the sustainability of the wild meat trade. 

The post holder will be an experienced interdisciplinary scientist, with expertise in conducting fieldwork and data analysis in conservation social science, and an interest in wildlife trade and consumption and improving conservation effectiveness. They will carry out fieldwork using social surveys to understand the gendered nature of the wildmeat trade, and the motivations and livelihood options of bushmeat traders. Working with colleagues, they will lay the foundations of an interdisciplinary research hub for wildmeat within ERAIFT, Democratic Republic of Congo.

The successful application will have: a relevant PhD/DPhil (or be near to completion i.e. about to submit); sufficient specialist knowledge, and relevant scientific publications; the ability to manage their own academic research; previous experience of engagement with a range of audiences using a range of mediums; excellent communication skills, including writing for publication, presenting research proposals and results, organising and leading meetings, and representing the research team; ability to mentor and manage teams and work collaboratively; ability to communicate effectively in English and French; willingness to travel and to spend substantial time in Central Africa.

Applications are particularly welcome from women and black and minority ethnic candidates, who are under-represented in academic posts in Oxford.

All applications need to be made online by noon on the 25th January 2021.