Ocean Career: The Island School Research Faculty (Physical Oceanography)

The Cape Eleuthera Institute (CEI) is the hub for research and innovation at The Island School in South Eleuthera, The Bahamas. As part of an organization devoted to research, education, and conservation, CEI seeks to create a connection between people and the environment as a path toward a more sustainable future. They are internationally recognized for our environmental research and education programs, facilitated by outstanding access to a range of tropical habitats.

Job Summary

The Cape Eleuthera Institute is looking for a graduate scientist (masters or higher) to lead a research and teaching program in physical oceanography, supporting an ongoing partnership with the University of Miami and NOAA to deploy underwater gliders collecting observational ocean data. They are seeking to grow our research and teaching in this area with plans to deploy an oceanographic mooring on the Bahamian continental shelf, delivering real time data in support of our marine conservation work. They are also currently developing partnerships with other oceanographic organizations to grow this work.

This role comes with considerable scope to develop an independent program of research that produces tangible benefits for The Bahamas, while engaging our students with hands-on field work. They are particularly interested in research that considers the relationship between the marine environment and human activities, although we remain open to proposals for innovative research in any field.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Lead the delivery of educational programming in oceanography, including an Island School research class each semester
  • Lead an independent research program in oceanography, including fundraising and developing new collaborations
  • Oversee equipment maintenance, purchasing and budget for assigned projects
  • Write and publish research papers and technical reports as well as other forms of public dissemination of your work, including preparing social media content
  • Assist with the recruitment, management and mentoring of junior staff and interns
  • Provide logistical support for visiting scientists and graduate students
  • Represent the organization at national and international events

Other Duties

Staff with additional specialist skills that may benefit other parts of the organization will be expected to assist activities in these areas, for example:

  • Dive professionals (PADI Divemaster/Instructor or equivalent; Freediver Instructor)
  • Certified boating, sailing or kayaking instructors
  • Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) or Wilderness Medicine specialists
  • Certified school teachers

Additional duties will be tailored to your qualifications/experience and accounted for in your compensation package, based on an assessment by your manager.

Please note that this job description does not contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that may be required of the employee for this job. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time, with the needs of the organization.

Skills and Qualifications

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

  • Education—Master’s degree (or higher) in biological or environmental science
  • Experience—Prior teaching experience, preferably across different age groups
  • Communication Skills—Confident in public speaking and verbal presentation of work. Can adapt communication style to different educational audiences. Proficient in scientific and grant writing.
  • Analytical Skills—Expertise in experimental design, data analysis and curation
  • Boating—Experience with handling small boats, preferably with formal qualification (Bahamas Class B Captain’s Licence, RYA Level 2 Powerboat or equivalent).
  • Adaptability—Able to survive and thrive in a small and tight-knit community located in a remote part of The Bahamas.
  • Commitment to Organizational Mission—this position requires commitment to the wider mission and values of The Island School.

Compensation & Benefits

  • Salary commensurate with experience
  • Accommodation and utilities, with on-campus meals in our dining hall
  • Comprehensive medical insurance and dental reimbursement up to $300
  • Life insurance ($25,000 policy)
  • 26 days of paid leave: 10 vacation days, 11 national holidays and 5 sick days
  • Eligibility for matching retirement plan after two years of service
  • Professional development opportunities

Anticipated start date for this position is August 1, 2024.

Learn more about this opportunity and how to apply.

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