Marine Biologist - South Georgia

British Antarctic Survey (BAS) is looking for an exceptional Marine Biologist to join our hard-working team based in Antarctica.  BAS delivers and enables world-leading interdisciplinary research in the Polar Regions. We employ experts from many different professions to carry out our Science as well as keep the lights on, feed the research and support teams and keep everyone safe!

Our skilled science, operational and support staff based in Cambridge, Antarctica and the Arctic, work together to deliver research that uses the Polar Regions to advance our understanding of Earth as a sustainable planet. Through our extensive logistic capability and know how BAS facilitates access for the British and international science community to the UK polar research operation. Numerous national and international collaborations, combined with an excellent infrastructure help sustain a world leading position for the UK in Antarctic affairs.  British Antarctic Survey is a component of the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), which is part of UK Research and Innovation www.ukri.org

Working at BAS is rewarding.  The UK’s polar research effort is critically important for understanding environmental issues that affect everyone.  This is an opportunity to do what may seem like an ordinary job in the most extraordinary place on Earth.

You’ll be joining our Ecosystems Team, whose focus is the Southern Ocean ecosystem and provides science to underpin the UK contribution to the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Living Resources.

You’ll assist with all aspects of the laboratory and field-based research programme undertaken by BAS on behalf of the Government of South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands. You’ll also undertake biological sampling of the inshore waters of South Georgia using a variety of techniques and to analyse samples in the laboratory.

Within the role, there will be an opportunity to develop - training will be provided for the various aspects of the role, including training in the piloting of small drones (UAVs), boat handling, personal survival techniques.

You’ll be joining a world-leading interdisciplinary research organisation, that is committed to recruiting talented people like you giving you the support, you need to thrive at BAS.  Antarctica is one of the most exhilarating and spectacular workplaces you could imagine. 

Your main responsibilities will include:

• To assist with all aspects of the implementation of the research programme at King Edward Point, South Georgia.
• To undertake monitoring of key populations of marine predators as part of established long term monitoring efforts.
• To undertake both laboratory and field research and participate in ship-based scientific surveys.

Current projects the team are working on include working to deliver a 5-yr science plan for KEP, which includes acoustic surveys for krill and cetacean surveys conducted from the Pharos SG.  Surveys of penguins and seals are being conducted using small UAVs. There will also be an opportunity to participate in the biennial fish survey of South Georgia.

For the role of Marine Biologist we are looking for somebody who:

• Has been awarded an honours degree in marine biology (or similar) by the interview date
• Has at-sea fieldwork experience
• Has report writing skills

If we’ve just described you, we’d love to hear from you.  Apply now at bas.ac.uk/vacancies.

What we offer:

As a valued employee, you’ll be eligible for benefits including an end of contract payment upon completion of a successful assignment in Antarctica, annual leave, a defined benefit pension scheme with NEST (National Employment Savings Trust) and access to 24 hours/365 days per year employee assistance programme.    In addition, you will be provided with pre-deployment training and accommodation costs.  All food, accommodation and polar clothing during Antarctic deployment will also be provided.

What experiences can we offer you?

At BAS we believe everyone plays a vital role, is unique and valued, therefore, we embrace diversity as well as equality of opportunity and are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming working environment where everyone’s unique perspectives are valued.

Different perspectives and collaborative working help us achieve our best work and come together to form a high performing team which makes positive changes in the business. That’s the power of every individual.  Our cultural values are built on mutual respect, inclusion, commitment and excellence.

If you are looking for an opportunity to work with world class and amazing people in one of the most unique places in the world, then British Antarctic Survey could be for you.