Scholar - Polar Bear Research (CREW)

Through funding from the Ellen and Richard Berghamer Foundation, the Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW) at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden has an immediate opening for a Scholar to join the Polar Bear Signature Project. This 12-month, full-time, trainee position offers a unique opportunity for recent graduates to gain applied research experience in wildlife conservation, endocrinology, veterinary medicine, and data analysis. Scholars will earn an annual stipend of $32,000, paid in bi-weekly intervals, and benefits will be provided.

Position summary:

• The aim of the Scholar position is to provide promising early-career scientists unique opportunities and experiences to prepare them for careers in conservation science and/or wildlife studies.
• The overarching aim of the project is to increase our understanding of the reproductive physiology and health of ursids, with the objective of informing the conservation and management of wild populations of bears.
• The successful candidate will work alongside, be mentored by, and support CREW scientists dedicated to studying threatened and endangered animal species, with a focus on polar bears.
• Please note that this position is laboratory-based and does not involve direct interactions with animals.

Role and responsibilities:

• The Scholar will play an integral role in a project focused on health monitoring and biomarker analyses of polar bears, working closely with CREW scientists in reviewing, coding, and organizing data from polar bear clinical records.
• Additionally, the Scholar will be trained in laboratory skills, including processing biological samples, performing hormone analyses, and learning about wildlife endocrinology and health.
• Depending on the candidate’s interests and aptitude, opportunities to design, conduct, and take ownership of an independent project are possible.
• An opportunity to attend a professional conference to present their research and to gain a broader perspective of wildlife research will be provided.

What we’re looking for:

• This position is open to recent graduates pursuing a career in wildlife studies
• . While all candidates who meet the required qualifications will be considered, candidates from underrepresented groups and first-generation college graduates are strongly encouraged to apply.

Required qualifications:

• A bachelor’s degree in biology, zoology, wildlife conservation, ecology, veterinary sciences, data science, or a related field;
• Knowledge of physiology, animal disease and some familiarity with medical terminology;
• Curious and motivated to solve problems;
• Available to work full-time for 12 months in Cincinnati, OH;
• Ability to maintain focus and productivity working at a computer for several hours/day;
• Results-driven and able to meet deadlines;
• Should be comfortable working with fecal samples on a regular basis;
• Extremely detail-oriented and organized, and;
• Able to work well and communicate effectively with CREW scientists, zoo staff, interns, volunteers, students, and the general public.

Bonus qualifications:

• Experience working with large datasets, coding medical records, or data mining techniques;
• Proficiency in statistical programming (R, Python) to analyze data;
• Experience working in a laboratory, outside of coursework;
• Familiarity with or has taken courses relating to veterinary immunology, animal physiology, or data science.

About CREW:

• Located on the grounds of the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, CREW is one of just a few zoological facilities entirely dedicated to supporting conservation research and houses a team of full-time scientists.
• CREW plays a critical role in broadening the knowledge and understanding of animal and plant biology, increasing and preserving global biodiversity, connecting managed and wild populations and conserving imperiled species in their native environment.
• Channeling the strengths and expertise of the scientific staff, CREW takes a focused approach to wildlife conservation by identifying Signature projects where we believe our impact can be significant, including: 1) rhinos, 2) exceptional plants, 3) imperiled cats, and 4) polar bears.
• Each Signature project is a well-rounded program with ongoing activities in each of five strategic areas considered essential to conserving these species: research, education, in situ protection, propagation, and visitor involvement.

Working Conditions:

• While performing the duties of the job, the incumbent will be regularly required to stand, walk, and utilize manual dexterity to operate laboratory equipment, as well as a computer mouse and keyboard, for extended periods of time.
• The incumbent must be able to lift/move/carry up to 30 pounds without assistance.
• Incumbent must be comfortable working in a walk-in freezer and refrigerator on occasion.

Compensation & Benefits:

• This is a full-time, 12-month, overtime-exempt position. A bi-weekly salary and a comprehensive benefits package will be provided, including affordable medical, dental & vision coverage, 401(k) plan with company match (after 6 months employment), flexible spending accounts, generous paid time off (vacation, holiday and sick leave), company-paid disability & life insurance, park discounts and free passes. Housing is not provided.

• To apply for this position: Qualified applicants must apply via our online application on our website at: http://cincinnatizoo.org/about-us/job-opportunities/.
• Resume/CV and cover letter, containing contact information for three references should be uploaded in your online application.
• In the cover letter, please describe how this position will help you to achieve your career goals.

Timeline:

• The position is available immediately, and the closing date for the first round of applications is Oct 11, 2024.
• The initial round of interviews will be conducted via Zoom on October 16th and 17th , 2024.
• Applicants must be available to start no later than November 18th, 2024.
• If an appropriate candidate is not identified, the position will remain posted until a qualified candidate is found.
• By applying, the applicant acknowledges that they are willing to relocate to Cincinnati, if applicable.