IMPORTANT: This Advertiser has requested that applicants MUST be National Residents / Valid Work Permit-holders. Other applicants need not apply.
The British Antarctic Survey (BAS), part of the Natural Environment Research Council, aims to undertake a world-class programme of scientific research, and to sustain for the UK an active and influential regional presence and a leadership role in Antarctic affairs.
There is currently a vacancy for a Scientific assistant (fisheries biology) to work at the applied fisheries research laboratory at King Edward Point (KEP) on the sub-Antarctic island of South Georgia. The successful candidate will assist with the laboratory and field-based research programme undertaken by BAS on behalf of the Government of South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands (GSGSSI). You will be required to undertake biological sampling of the inshore waters of South Georgia using a variety of techniques such as plankton nets and recorders. Laboratory work will include the analysis of specimens from the inshore sampling programme and the commercial fishery. The work will be focused on the commercially important Patagonian toothfish and mackerel icefish but will include research on a range of other associated species and bycatch. Feeding ecology, distribution, growth and reproductive ecology are the main research areas where you will be expected to provide data that help to underpin the sustainable management of fish resources at South Georgia. You will be required to participate in ship-based surveys of the commercially important resource species of South Georgia and could be asked to spend time at sea on commercial fishing vessels acting as a scientific observer. The day to day management of the laboratory facilities is an important element of the post. You will help to prepare data and reports as required and produce scientific papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals where appropriate.
The applied fisheries research laboratory at King Edward Point, South Georgia opened in March 2001 following the departure of the military garrison from the island. The station boasts well-equipped analytical and wet laboratories, a scientific library, modern computer facilities linked to the BAS headquarters in Cambridge and a controlled temperature facility for holding live specimens. A high quality, accommodation block provides comfortable living conditions for the personnel on station. Over winter the station has a BAS complement of eight: - two scientists and five support staff including a doctor and a two boatmen. The station personnel also provide logistical support for the GSGSSI Marine Officer and the South Georgia Museum located at the abandoned whaling station at Grytviken.
The post is based at South Georgia and is a fixed term appointment of 27 months (with approximately 24 months continuously at South Georgia). You will work alongside the zoological field assistant at KEP and report to the science manager at BAS, Cambridge. You will also be responsible for the implementation of Health and Safety regulations on the station and in the field.
Qualifications: Applicants should have a good degree in marine biology, fisheries science or a related subject and have fieldwork experience of sampling techniques for marine fauna. They should also be numerate and possess computer/IT skills and have experience of data handling and analysis. Experience of marine aquarium systems would be an advantage. Previous experience of small-boat handling and working at sea is desirable. You may required to work at sea on fishing vessels as an international scientific fisheries observer and must be a UK passport holder to fulfill this role.
Duration: Fixed Term Appointment (18 Months, possibility of up to 27 Months)
Salary: £23,937 per annum initially. Additionally, upon completion of a successful tour, you will receive a 10% bonus.
On-line application forms and further information are available on our website at www.bas.ac.uk/jobs
These are also available from the Personnel Section, British Antarctic Survey, High Cross, Madingley Road, Cambridge, CB3 0ET. Tel: (01223) 221508.
Please quote reference: BAS 18/16
Closing date for receipt of application forms is: 26th June 2016
Interviews are scheduled to be held on: w/c 25th July 2016
Candidates should be physically capable and medically fit to work at sea in Antarctic conditions.
Candidates wishing to discuss these posts informally should contact Dr Mark Belchier at the British Antarctic Survey (Tel: 01223 221600; E-mail: markb@bas.ac.uk)
