Woodland Park Zoo is currently seeking a Social Science Researcher for a research program focused on understanding the perception of animals and its impact on the development of empathy in visitors. This position is funded by a 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 Social Science Researcher will play a critical role in the zoo’s ongoing efforts to build on its work in fostering empathy for wildlife. This position is currently funded for 2.5 years, and may be extended pending funding. The individual is expected to be an active member of fundraising efforts.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES - Plans, develops and implements studies relating to the perception of animal/welfare and fostering of empathy
- Works with Education, Animal Management, and Animal Health staff to link research work and findings with activities and program needs of the strategic work of the zoo
- Works with staff to incorporate best practices, trends and research findings to help develop programs and messages that will motivate visitors to pro-conservation behavior
- 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
- Represent the zoo to a broad range of constituencies including Board members, staff, senior executives, government officials and community leaders, foundations, local educators and educational organizations, AZA and the conservation community
- Assists with zoo development, education and public relations efforts as requested
- Participate in project meetings with team members and partners
- Collaborate with stakeholders and partners across departments and organizations
- Develop and strengthen internal and external partnerships
- 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 social science researcher 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. - Minimum 2 years of experience independently conducting primary research
- Familiarity with both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies
- Proven record of research experience
- Strong interpersonal, verbal and written communication, and listening skills
- Motivated self-starter with ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Creative, innovative, future-thinking
- 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; ability to work with people of different skill levels
- Ability to work with a large number of people in a team-oriented culture including 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
Minimum Master’s degree in anthropology, sociology, conservation psychology or related fields required. Ph.D. preferred. Demonstrated ability to conduct primary research. Postdoctoral experience preferred. 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. |
Woodland Park Zoo is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination in application and employment for any reason, including race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, age, disability or medical status including genetic information, and/or veteran’s status.
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