The Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW) at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden (http://cincinnatizoo.org/conservation/crew) is seeking to hire a Research Scientist to advance the health, welfare, and humane management of community cats. This full-time, two-year position is funded by the Joanie Bernard Foundation and includes a comprehensive benefits package.
A Unique Opportunity to Shape the Future of Community Cat Management:
- This isn't just a research role; it's a chance to be at the forefront of animal welfare science, working directly with cats on projects with global implications.
- As our Research Scientist, you will be deeply immersed in translational research spanning feline reproduction, behavior, wellness, and community-based management strategies.
- This role offers a unique pathway to become a recognized expert in feline welfare and non-surgical fertility control, rapidly evolving fields with immense potential for impact.
- You will work in a highly collaborative environment, interacting closely with external research partners and stakeholders across animal welfare, veterinary medicine, conservation biology, and public health.
Key Responsibilities and Impact:
- A primary deliverable of this position is leading a systematic review of trap-neuter-vaccinate-return (TNVR) literature using PRISMA guidelines.
- The resulting peer-reviewed publication is intended to be a foundational resource, informing future research, identifying critical knowledge gaps, and guiding evidence-based best practices in TNVR implementation worldwide.
- Beyond this cornerstone project, you will support several active and groundbreaking research studies, which may include the following:
- Developing non-surgical sterilants for cats, pushing the boundaries of humane population management.
- Advancing evidence-based husbandry practices for companion, community, and shelter cats
- Evaluating long-term vaccine immunity in feline populations.
- Analyzing dietary intake through stable isotope analysis.
- The position involves direct, hands-on interaction with cats, including participation in clinical procedures, behavioral assessments, sample collection, and routine husbandry activities as part of ongoing research studies.
Qualifications:
- We are seeking a passionate and scientifically-minded individual with a proven ability to engage with complex research.
- This position is open to candidates with a DVM and/or PhD in a related scientific field such as veterinary medicine, animal science, or public health.
- Candidates with equivalent substantial experience in scientific research and a strong publication record are also encouraged to apply.
The ideal candidate will demonstrate:
- Exceptional scientific writing skills with a track record of peer-reviewed publications.
- Proven ability to read, interpret, and critically evaluate peer-reviewed scientific literature.
- Strong experience in study design, statistical analysis, and data interpretation.
- The ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a dynamic research team.
- A robust scientific mindset, capable of maintaining objectivity and rigor, particularly when addressing topics that can elicit passion, such as community cat management.
Preferred additional experience includes:
- Leading systematic reviews and/or meta-analyses.
- Experience in free-roaming cat management or shelter medicine.
- Background in ecology, conservation biology, or wildlife health.
- Expertise in reproductive physiology, veterinary clinical trials, or One Health principles.
- Demonstrated skills in science communication and stakeholder engagement.
Compensation & Benefits:
- This is a full-time, 24-month temporary position with an annual salary of $60,000, paid bi-weekly.
- The position is exempt from overtime and includes a comprehensive benefits package, featuring affordable medical, dental, and vision coverage; a 401(k) plan with company match (after six months); flexible spending account; generous paid time off (including vacation, holidays, and sick leave); company-paid disability and life insurance; park discounts; and complimentary passes. Additionally, the selected candidate will have the opportunity to attend a scientific conference relevant to the project's goals. Employment is contingent on passing a post-offer, pre-employment drug screening, TB test, and background check.
- To Apply for this Position: Interested and qualified candidates must submit an online application through our website at https://cincinnatizoo.org/about-us/job-opportunities/?gnk=job&gni=8a7885ac96d0a1a0019722fb4ec77619&lang=en
Applications must include:
- Cover letter outlining career goals and fit for the position
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Contact information for three professional references
Timeline:
- Closing date for the first round of applications is 8/01/2025, with a flexible starting date before 12/01/2025.
- However, if an appropriate candidate is not identified, the position will remain posted until a qualified candidate is hired.
