Stranding Scientist

Job Description

In this role as our Stranding Scientist you will be responsible for the scientific endeavor of the Rescue and Rehabilitation program of the Yas SeaWorld Research and Rescue Center, with a special interest in marine megafauna populations of the Arabian Gulf.Main responsibilities are:

• processing necropsy samples and collecting/analyzing/interpreting data.
• planning and managing related research projects.
• overseeing the post-release monitoring of megafauna through satellite telemetry.
• contributing to supervise students.
• participating in the daily operations of the YSWRRC for knowledge dissemination and education.

• Manages and analyzes scientific data collected from the stranding and rescue operations of the YSWRRC.
• Investigates and records strandings and sightings of animals reported by public or the authorities.
• Plans, manages, and delivers research projects on marine megafauna population health.
• Leads the production of high-quality research reports, scientific publications, and other communication material.
• Oversees the tagging of marine megafauna and the post-release monitoring.
• Assists in the communication with Abu Dhabi authorities, the UAE government, regional stranding stakeholders and the other Emirates on the local and national stranding response plans.
• Assists the YSWRRC Veterinary Team during field and lab necropsies on stranded marine megafauna.
• Assists the YSWRRC Rescue Team as required during rescue operations.
• Develops collaborative research with YSWRRC colleagues and actively promotes external contacts and networks for local and international scientific collaboration.
• Develops and manages conservation projects with governmental and non-governmental agencies as well as other partners.
• Develops, writes and submits proposals for major research/conservation grants and funding programs.
• Supervises students and coordinates collaborating scientists.
• Actively contributes to the outreach goals and education programs of the YSWRRC.
• Collaborates with SeaWorld Abu Dhabi Zoological and Education teams as required.
• Contributes to the overall success of the YSWRRC projects by performing all other duties as assigned

• Master?s Degree in Marine Science, Biological Science, or related field ? or equivalent experience.
• 4 years of experience in Stranding Research Projects.
• Excellent English verbal and written communication skills, particularly in communicating research findings to non-academic audiences.
• Demonstrated competency in scientific investigation of the health of marine megafauna population.
• Demonstrated success in publishing research results in refereed scientific journals and peer-reviewed publications.
• Demonstrated experience in collaborating with governmental agencies as well as local authorities and partners.
• Ability to represent the Yas SeaWorld Research and Rescue Center to community, media, government agencies, and conservation associations.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and teamwork abilities.
• Demonstrated commitment to company values and safety.

• PhD in Marine Science, Biological Science, or related field.
• 2 years of experience in Research Project Management.
• Arabic verbal and written communication skills.
• Previous experience in the GCC region.
• Evidence of ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams.
• Ability to contribute to the development of international collaboration.
• Evidence of multicultural skills in the workplace is an advantage.
• Evidence of community engagement and academic outreach.

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