EDGE Fellows Co-ordinator – EDGE of Existence Programme

The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) is seeking a Projects Co-ordinator to oversee the EDGE of Existence programme’s Fellowship scheme. This initiative supports early-career conservation biologists from developing countries to carry out targeted research and conservation of the world’s most Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered (EDGE) species.

EDGE Fellowships provide in-country conservation biologists with training, technical advice and seed funding to carry out applied research and conservation planning for poorly-known EDGE species and, where possible, to develop larger-scale projects to implement recommended conservation actions. Over the next two years our priority is to strengthen the training component of the programme, through developing online modules and annual regional training courses in Asia and Africa, plus conservation leadership training in the UK.

The EDGE Fellows Co-ordinator will work with ZSL Conservation Biologists to develop the training programme, as well as being the main ZSL contact for current and future EDGE Fellows. Key duties in this varied role include overseeing the design and execution of the regional and UK training courses, reviewing, awarding and administering all fellowships, monitoring Fellows’ progress towards their goals, compiling reports, fundraising and assisting with promoting the EDGE of Existence programme.

The post holder will be based primarily at the ZSL main offices in London. There may be scope for international travel once the regional training courses are operational.

Candidates should have a post graduate degree or equivalent experience in conservation, technical knowledge of applied research techniques, conservation planning and implementation, experience in project management and administration (including managing budgets), grant writing experience and excellent written communication and interpersonal skills.

The post-holder will have a fixed term ZSL contract for 12 months and the post is available immediately. Applicants should send their CV with details of two referees and a covering letter, detailing relevant experience and skills and including a possible start date, by email to ZSL’s HR Department (hr@zsl.org) by Friday, 5 November 2010. Interviews will be held on Wednesday, 17 November.  Further details of the EDGE of Existence programme can be gained from the EDGE website (www.edgeofexistence.org).