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Research Scientist

Biodiversity Ecosystem Modelling in Land and Water Resources

Our client, The Wyss Academy for Nature, in collaboration with the Wangari Maathai Institute for Peace and Environmental Studies (WMI), University of Nairobi, is recruiting a Research Scientist in Biodiversity Ecosystem Modelling in Land and Water Resources.

The successful candidate will apply their spatial analysis experience, remote sensing techniques, citizen science and data analysis skills to model biodiversity and ecosystem responses to climate
change and other human-induced stressors in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems within an interdisciplinary project in climate and biodiversity aiming at addressing water scarcity and biodiversity threats in the Ewaso Ng’iro North basin in Kenya. The scientist will adopt and apply transformative and transdisciplinary research approaches giving special attention to selected IUCN Red List species, including endemic and threatened species, flagship species, and umbrella species.

Responsibilities

  • Assess the state of biodiversity in the Ewaso Ng’iro River North Basin through literature review and data collection.
  • Develop scenarios for biodiversity responses to climate change and other stressors, collaborating with the Climate Scenarios Research Scientist.
  • Strengthen long-term biodiversity monitoring and reporting through robust data collection methods.
  • Organize and deliver seminars at the Wangari Maathai Institute (WMI), University of Nairobi.
  • Supervise PhD, MSc, or intern students as needed.
  • Support scientific collaborations with local partners (UoN, National Museums of Kenya, Community Conservation groups, SEKU, CETRAD).

Qualifications

  • Doctorate in Natural Resource Management, Conservation, Environmental Science, Geography, Biology, Conservation Biology, and/or related fields
  • Excellent understanding of biodiversity models especially species distribution models and habitat prioritization
  • Experience in spatial analysis and remote sensing techniques
  • Good knowledge of data analysis using statistical software (knowledge in R is preferred) and programming using Python is a plus.
  • Experience in field and landscape level biodiversity monitoring approaches and methods, including citizen science
  • Ability to work with the local community and a good understanding and willingness to learn of local cultural practice.
  • Ability to disseminate research findings by presenting results at conferences, participating in workshops
  • Working experience in South-North research partnerships.
  • Excellent communication skills and fluency in English oral and written; communication skills in Kiswahili is a plus.

Wyss Academy offer

  • The position is based in Nanyuki, Kenya, employed by the local branch office.
  • The chance to be part of an agile organization that develops, tests, and scales up innovative solutions to the most urgent problems of our times, exploring new modes of collaboration.
  • A stimulating intercultural, international, multidisciplinary working environment with a modern culture of collaboration across four world regions.
  • Flexible working hours and space for innovative approaches and creative thinking.

For more information about this position, please write to hr@wyssacademy.org. Interested candidates should visit https://www.wyssacademy.org/careers to apply and access the full job description for this position. Applications should be received by 17th Sept 2024.

The Wyss Academy for Nature and Wangari Maathai Institute values diversity and equal opportunity. We welcome all applications from qualified individuals who meet the required criteria. Women are strongly encouraged to apply. Dossiers submitted through employment agencies will not be considered.

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