Woodland Park Zoo is currently seeking an Animal Welfare Scientist to join its Animal Care Team. This new position will formally propose, develop and execute animal welfare research, the results of which will be communicated through peer-reviewed and popular publications, as well as through presentations at scientific, AZA and other professional conferences. The Animal Welfare Scientist will also assist staff in developing species-appropriate welfare assessments, enhancements and presentations. This position is expected to be an active member of fundraising efforts. This position is initially funded, in part, by a grant-supported research and implementation initiative: The Empathy Project. The Empathy Project builds on previous work at the zoo on fostering empathy, and is focused on - Continuing to test and refine empathy measurement tools
- Understanding the intersections between animal welfare, perception of welfare, and empathy-based programming
- Building a learning community to disseminate findings and support iterative learning
The Animal Welfare Scientist will play a critical role in the zoo’s ongoing efforts to build on its work in fostering empathy for wildlife. This position is expected to be a regular full-time position. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES - Plans, develops and implements animal welfare research projects in collaboration with Animal Management, Animal Health and Education staff.
- Works with Animal Management, Animal Health and Education staff to link research work and findings with activities and program needs of the strategic work of the zoo, specifically research on animal welfare and guest perceptions of welfare.
- Works with Education staff to help develop messages that will inspire our guests to care and take actions to help conserve wildlife and habitats.
- Presents data and findings to staff, volunteers and Board of Directors as requested.
- Publishes and presents findings in collaboration with and after approval of supervisor and staff as appropriate.
- Represents WPZ at relevant conferences, professional gatherings and workshops with an aim to demonstrate leadership in animal welfare research.
- Assists with WPZ development, education and public relations efforts as requested.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES This position may oversee any students, interns, or research assistants involved in related projects at the Zoo. The Animal Welfare Scientist will be responsible for ensuring that these participants follow all rules of conduct and expectations set forth in the employee manual. QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. - Advanced knowledge of current scientific research methods, biology and natural history, and statistical analyses.
- Advanced knowledge of biology and behavior of zoo animals.
- Interpersonal and professional skills necessary to establish and maintain strong working relationships with zoo departments, staff members, board members, volunteers and community organizations and individuals.
- Proven record of research experience and a strong record of successful publication in related fields.
- Experience with research projects that help enhance and assess animal welfare.
- Zoo, aquarium or museum experience is preferred.
- Ability to work with a large number of people in a team-oriented culture. This includes leading teams in solving problems, setting priorities, meeting deadlines and implementing programs.
- Excellent organizational and problem solving skills.
- Strong proficiency in both written and oral communication skills.
- Competence and proficiency in the use of computers and a wide variety of software programs, particularly as related to research.
- Ability to travel to offsite meetings independently as needed.
- Commitment to the mission of the zoo and the institution’s Core Values.
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE PhD in biology, zoology, conservation science or related field with 5 or more years of work experience in animal welfare research or equivalent. Postdoctoral research experience in a zoo or aquarium setting strongly preferred. Proven experience in proposal writing, research methods, statistical analysis and publication in peer-reviewed literature required. APPLICATION DIRECTIONS Applications are only accepted online through our Jobs page at www.zoo.org; no other forms of application will be accepted. Cover letter and resume are REQUIRED when applying for this position. NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE. APPLICATION DEADLINE: Applications are due prior to 12:00 AM on the posted Close date (i.e. by 11:59 PM the evening before). Woodland Park Zoo is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination in employment on any basis including race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran’s status, sexual orientation, or gender identity/expression. |
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