Conservation Researcher
Location
Weymouth, Dorset, United Kingdom
Work type
Onsite
Employment
Contract
Experience
2-5 years
Compensation
Compensation not disclosed
Posted
6h ago
Summary and responsibilities
Role overview
Summary
The Conservation Researcher will oversee the day-to-day delivery of a seagrass restoration project, including nursery operations, data collection, field restoration, monitoring, and surveys. This role involves organizing and leading dive and snorkel operations, collaborating with partners on research, and contributing to wider marine conservation initiatives.
Are you passionate about marine conservation and looking for a role where your work can make a real difference? Want to combine scientific research, hands-on fieldwork and aquarium-based conservation?
Our Conservation, Welfare & Education team delivers conservation and research projects across marine and freshwater environments and we’re now looking for a Conservation Researcher to help deliver our local conservation work, beginning with an exciting seagrass restoration project.
You’ll oversee the day-to-day delivery of the project, from nursery operations and data collection through to field restoration, monitoring and surveys. You’ll also organise and lead dive and snorkel operations, ensuring they are delivered safely and in line with relevant health, safety and licensing requirements.
Working with local authorities, government bodies, universities and conservation partners, you’ll help develop and deliver research into seagrass restoration. You’ll have the opportunity to test new restoration methods, support seed planting and transplantation, and contribute to wider marine conservation projects.
The role will also provide opportunities to get involved in skate and seahorse research, conservation impact assessments and other conservation initiatives. You’ll work closely with the SEA LIFE aquarium team, supporting our ex-situ conservation facilities and contributing to a small proportion of aquarist duties.
You’ll also help communicate our conservation work through reports, presentations and educational displays, as well as supporting funding applications and assessing the impact of conservation projects.
This is a 12-month fixed-term role, 37.5 hours per week, based at SEA LIFE Weymouth, with the possibility of extension to be confirmed.
Qualifications & Experience
PADI Rescue Diver, BSAC Sports Diver or equivalent, with 50+ recorded post-qualification dives
Experience managing risk, particularly during scuba and snorkel operations
A Bachelor of Science degree or equivalent experience
Experience of scientific research, including peer-reviewed or grey literature
Ability to pass an HSE dive medical
Full clean UK driving licence
Experience with aquarium set-up and environmental monitoring
Good understanding of life support systems and animal welfare
Basic knowledge of native marine species identification
Good computer skills and the ability to manage research data
It would be great if you also have
An HSE dive qualification, although training can be provided if required
A postgraduate degree
Data analysis experience using RStudio or ArcGIS
Experience with Canva and social media
Experience presenting research at conferences
Updated 6h ago
Candidate fit
Skills and qualifications
Additional skills
Experience
2-5 years
Certifications
How this role is positioned
Role classification
Job domains
Industries
Employment
Contract
Contract duration
Permanent
Hiring type
Direct
Global hiring
Location specific
Offer details
Compensation and benefits
Compensation
Compensation not disclosed
Location, schedule, and role shape
Work setup
Work conditions
Bandwidth profile
Context on the employer
Company snapshot
Company
Merlin Entertainments
Team size
Growing team
Location
Weymouth, Dorset, United Kingdom
Merlin Entertainments operates magical attractions and resorts worldwide, including SEA LIFE Weymouth. The company is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone feels valued and has equal opportunities.
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Conservation Researcher
Weymouth, Dorset, United Kingdom • Contract