Biodiversity Research OfficerNew!

Description (Public)

The Biodiversity Research Officer supports the generation, management, analysis and application of scientific information to inform biodiversity conservation and protected area management in Uganda, leading ecological research, wildlife population monitoring, habitat assessments and species-specific studies, mainly in Murchison Falls Protected Area. The role reports to the Country Biodiversity Research and Management Coordinator.

Duties, Roles and Responsibilities

Design, coordinate and conduct large mammal and plant surveys, habitat assessments and ecological monitoring in protected areas and priority landscapes.
Contribute to developing and implementing research protocols, methodologies and data collection tools.
Coordinate field-based research activities and supervise research teams.
Analyse ecological data and prepare technical reports and scientific products to inform conservation interventions.
Support wildlife monitoring systems and human-wildlife conflict assessments.
Support wildlife crime-related research and evidence generation.
Collaborate with Uganda Wildlife Authority, research institutions and other conservation partners.
Plan activities and manage field budgets and accounting.

Qualifications, Education and Competencies

Qualifications & Experience:

Master's degree in ecology, environmental science, conservation biology, natural resource management or a related field, with qualification in bioinformatics, biometrics or quantitative ecology.
Minimum of five years professional experience in biological research and monitoring in protected areas in Uganda.
Demonstrated ability to manage field teams and deliver high-quality reports under tight deadlines.
Experience in activity planning, field budget management and accounting.
Experience in wildlife population estimation, ecological surveys and biodiversity monitoring methodologies.
Experience designing field research protocols, data collection tools and monitoring frameworks.
Experience collaborating with UWA, district local governments, conservation NGOs and technical partners.

Skills & Competencies:

Sound knowledge of MS Office, R statistical software and ArcGIS or Quantum GIS.
Knowledge of wildlife ecology, habitat assessment and conservation management.
Excellent oral and written communication in English.
Strong teamwork and interpersonal skills in multicultural teams.
Familiarity with wildlife monitoring platforms such as EarthRanger and knowledge of research permits is an advantage.

How to Apply

About Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Uganda

WCS Uganda is a leading environmental organization committed to saving wildlife and wild places through science, conservation action, and education. By working closely with local communities, government partners, and stakeholders, we implement innovative solutions to preserve Uganda's unique ecosystems and inspire people to value and protect the natural world for future generations.