Marine Biologist South Georgia - Antarctica

Background/Overview:

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 are currently vacancies for two marine biologists to work at the research laboratory at King Edward Point (KEP) on the sub-Antarctic Island of South Georgia. The successful candidates will assist with the laboratory and field-based research programme undertaken by BAS on behalf of the Government of South Georgia & the South Sandwich Islands (GSGSSI). The research undertaken at KEP is science in support of the conservation and management of the South Georgia & South Sandwich Islands Marine Protected Area, including science underpinning the management of the krill, toothfish and icefish fisheries. Successful candidates will be expected to undertake field, seagoing and laboratory work to support all areas of KEP science.

Populations of land-breeding marine predators (e.g. penguins and seals) are monitored to understand the impacts of climate change, fisheries and the recovery of the island’s ecosystems from historical exploitation. The team at KEP undertake monitoring of population size and reproductive success of species such as Antarctic fur seals, Southern elephant seals, giant petrels and gentoo penguins. This work will involve regular trips to study beaches close to the station for population monitoring throughout the breeding seasons. Some specific data collection includes animal handling, for this reason animal handling experience is highly desirable. Some of the survey work will be undertaken by UAVs, so any previous experience with UAVs would be valuable.

The scientific programme at KEP also includes regular biological sampling of the inshore waters of South Georgia using plankton nets and a CTD from the South Georgia patrol vessel, Pharos SG. Laboratory work will include the analysis of specimens from the inshore sampling programme and the commercial fisheries. The work will be focused on the commercially important Patagonian toothfish, Antarctic Krill 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 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, including hosting visiting scientists. You will help to prepare data and reports as required and produce scientific papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals where appropriate.

The 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 and modern computer facilities linked to the BAS headquarters in Cambridge. 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 six support staff including a doctor. The station personnel also provide logistical support for the GSGSSI Government Officers, 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 either 15 or 27 months. For the 27-month post, a period of leave and Cambridge based work will be scheduled after roughly 6 months on base. The two marine biologists will work in tandem at KEP and report to the fisheries ecologist and 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 These two positions offer a fantastic opportunity for highly motivated and disciplined individuals with relevant fieldwork skills and a keen interest in wildlife, who will adapt well to small island living in a challenging sub-Antarctic environment.

This position is suitable for those seeking a challenging role in support of polar science, with opportunities to appreciate stunning coastal scenery and the wildlife inhabiting this amazing continent.

Purpose:

To assist with all aspects of the laboratory and field-based research programme undertaken by BAS on behalf of the Government of South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands. To undertake biological sampling of the inshore waters of South Georgia using a variety of techniques and to analyse samples in the laboratory.

Duties:

• To assist with all aspects of the implementation of the research programme at King Edward Point, South Georgia.

• To undertake monitoring of key populations of marine predators as part of established long term monitoring efforts.

• To undertake both laboratory and field research and participate in ship-based scientific surveys.

• To prepare data and reports as required and produce scientific papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals where appropriate.

• To assist with the update of the scientific database

Job Types: Full-time, Temporary contract
Contract length: 15-27 months

Salary: From £25,179.00 per year

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Cycle to work scheme
• Employee discount
• Flexitime
• Free parking
• On-site parking
• Referral programme
• Store discount
• Work from home

Schedule:

• Flexitime

Work Location: In person

Reference ID: BAS 23/22