Deep Sea Research Coordinator

Do you have a passion for marine conservation? We are looking for an experienced marine conservationist to join our Marine Protected Area (MPA) Management Team and help us protect the unique ocean environment around Ascension Island.  The Ascension Island MPA was designated in August 2019 and is one of largest areas of protected ocean in the world.  This is an opportunity for you to help deliver management, monitoring and research and work with the Ascension Island Government, local community and international stakeholders to realise the huge potential of the MPA for global marine conservation.

We are looking for someone with a strong background in marine conservation who will be able to join our small team of marine scientists and work in partnership with Plymouth Marine Laboratory and University of Plymouth to deliver a Darwin Initiative funded project.  Crucially you will have experience of conducting fieldwork in sometimes challenging conditions and have powerboat handling qualifications.  You will require a good knowledge of marine ecosystems, threats to marine biodiversity and sustainable management practices.  You must have a strong grounding in the biological sciences, but also have the ability to translate the results of monitoring and research into programmes of practical conservation action.  Ascension Island is a challenging environment to live and work in, so you will need to be resilient and adaptable in order to thrive.

We are offering a one-year, single status, contract with a salary of £15,478.00 per year (taxable in Ascension).  You will also receive the following benefits and allowances:

• Rent free, furnished, single accommodation valued at £1,200 per year (taxable as a benefit in kind)
• A food allowance of £3,780 per year (taxable and paid with salary each month)
• A non-taxable electricity allowance paid in kind worth up to £938 per year
•  A non-taxable water allowance paid in kind worth up to £1,360 per year
• 30 days annual holiday (with additional 9 days public holidays)
• One return flight between the UK or St Helena and Ascension, on initial appointment and on completion of contract
• Free primary dental and medical care
• Free annual travel insurance

Closing Date:        Wednesday 20^th November 2024

Interviews:           Week commencing 25^th November 2024 (Remotely if not on island)

The appointment will be subject to satisfactory:

• Enhanced DBS Check
• Employment References
• Medical and Dental Clearance

For more information and to apply for this role, visit: https://www.ascension.gov.ac/lifestyle-and-employment/working-here/

For more information about the Ascension Island Government Conservation and Fisheries Directorate, or about living and working on Ascension Island, please visit the official website at www.ascension.gov.ac/conservation or find us on Facebook:  www.facebook.com/AscensionIslandConservation  or email: recruitment@ascension.gov.ac