[Coral-List] Job opportunity- Field science coordinator, Andavadoaka, Madagascar

[Matt Sommerville]

Field Science Coordinator
Andavadoaka, Madagascar
Blue Ventures Conservation, UK

We currently have a vacancy for the position of field science coordinator 
at our research site in southwest Madagascar.  The position is for a 
minimum period of 6 months, commencing in May 2004.  The role of the 
field science coordinator involves planning, directing and overseeing all 
marine, coastal and socio-economic research activities carried out at the 
research site, situated some 250km of the regional capital Toliara.
  
The selection, design and implementation of a comprehensive management 
plan for the Andavadoaka region is dependent on our having extensive 
knowledge of the species and habitats present and patterns of resource 
use, and being able to integrate these social, biological and economic 
data.  Applicants should have the vision and initiative to manage an 
ambitious and diverse ecological and social research program as well as 
work towards conservation objectives including the development of locally 
managed marine protection areas and promoting alternatives to destructive 
fishing methods.  In addition the successful applicant will be 
responsible for leading an international team of research volunteers and 
delegating research responsibility effectively.  

The role will require co-ordinating research activities with local 
partners from the University of Toliara and Malagasy government agencies, 
as well as with local and international NGOs, working towards the 
development of local and regional coastal and marine research initiatives 
as a basis for informing future management decisions.  The scientist will 
also be responsible for overseeing the activities of visiting researchers 
from national and international universities.  

The successful applicant will be a dynamic individual with extensive 
experience of carrying out field research on coral reefs and related 
habitats.  Experience of cetacean monitoring would be beneficial.  He/she 
should be qualified to a minimum of PADI Rescue Diver level or 
equivalent, with a masters degree or equivalent in tropical marine 
ecology, coastal management, or suitable related discipline.  Applicants 
must also have a good working knowledge of French.  Experience of working 
in Madagascar is also highly desirable.  Applicants should be proficient 
in Microsoft Office, ArcView, MapInfo, computer system networking and 
database design, as well as experience of statistical analysis 
software.   

Daily on-site responsibilities will include coordinating and leading 
research dives, managing the on-site database, and liasing with local 
community representatives, working in a remote and challenging 
environment.  All living, travel and incidental expenses will be covered, 
and additional remuneration will be dependent on experience.
For more information contact Matt Sommerville on jobs at blueventures.org or 
by telephone on +44 (0)20 8341 9819 or fax on +44 (0)20 8341 4821.  
Interested applicants should send a CV and covering letter to the 
following address, or by e mail to the above e mail address. 
Blue Ventures Conservation
52 Avenue Road,
London, 
N6 5DR, 
UK.