PhD project opportunity

PhD project opportunity: 

The role of diet and feeding regime in captive felid health and welfare

An exciting project is currently being developed with a multi-national group of scientists, aiming to investigate the impact of dietary fibre and fasting in the health and welfare of captive lions, tigers and cheetahs. Our research collaboration includes institutions and specialists in the USA and UK, with cross-disciplinary expertise in animal welfare, nutrition, endocrinology, behaviour, and digestive physiology.

This 3-year project will take a holistic approach to the investigation of the role of diet and feeding regime in carnivore welfare. The project aims are to (a) describe and compare a variety of health parameters associated with two alternative diets in three carnivore species, and (b) determine and compare the effect of these two alternative diets on felid response to fasting. The PhD candidate would play an integral role within the team, and take responsibility for study implementation, data collection, laboratory and data analyses, and data interpretation. The project will provide training in a variety of novel, modern laboratory, behavioural and analytical techniques, alongside the opportunity to work in an internationally renowned zoological facility in the USA.

We are now seeking expressions of interest from graduate researchers wishing to undertake their PhD in this field. Several grant applications are currently under review to fund this project (including student stipend and tuition fees), but interested applicants should be prepared to assist in further grant-writing procedures, if necessary, prior to this role being formally offered. The successful candidate will hold a first-class honours undergraduate degree in a relevant field (e.g. animal science, biology, behaviour, physiology), and will ideally have completed (or be nearing completion of) a post-graduate degree or have similar work experience demonstrating a high standard of research skills in a relevant subject. Candidates with substantial laboratory-based experience will also be preferred. As the PhD will be hosted by a UK University, only applicants with EU citizenship will be eligible to apply, and the candidates must be resident in the UK at the time of application.  A significant amount of international travel is required as part of this project, including 6-8 months per year spent living in the USA, for at least the first two years of the project.  The project is anticipated to commence in September 2016.

Expressions of interest should be forwarded to Dr. Katherine Whitehouse-Tedd at cheetah.research@gmail.com. Please include a detailed CV and a motivation letter describing why you are interested in this project and what skills and attributes you would offer the project.  Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

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Animal Welfare Technician

Animal Welfare Technician – 40 hours per week, based at our academies in Higham Ferrers, Daventry and Silverstone.

Salary: £17,070.00 - £18,103.00 per annum

The continued growth in students wishing to study Animal Welfare, Veterinary nursing and related courses means there has never been a more exciting opportunity to join Moulton College.

We invite applications from suitably qualified and experienced individuals to work within our purpose built facilities at our academy sites. The role will require travel to other college locations.

Duties will include all routine tasks required of animal husbandry to maintain the health, care and welfare of a range of companion and exotic animals. In addition you updating and maintaining records, preparing stock and equipment for use in practical classes, support lecturers and supervise students on commercial experience. Shift patterns operate between 6am – 8pm, lone working and weekend working is a requirement of this post.

A relevant Animal Care/Animal Welfare qualification is essential, as well as experience in a similar role working with a range of species. You will be able to demonstrate an in depth working knowledge of current industry practices. You will be a strong team player and have high personal standards that will naturally align with the Animal Welfare Centre. You will be physically fit as manual handling will be a requirement of this post.

For further details and an application pack, please contact:

Human Resources

Moulton College,

West Street,

Moulton,

Northants.

NN3 7RR.

Telephone; (01604) 491131 Fax; (01604) 645273 Email; jobs@moulton.ac.uk

http://www.moulton.ac.uk/contact-us/work-for-us/job-vacancies

Closing date for applications: 14^th December 2015

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Animal Welfare Technician (Maternity Cover)

Animal Welfare Technician (Maternity Cover) – 40 hours per week, based at Moulton

Salary: £17,070.00 - £18,103.00 per annum

The continued growth in students wishing to study Animal Welfare, Veterinary nursing and related courses means there has never been a more exciting opportunity to join Moulton College.

As a result of the maternity leave of one of our existing team, we wish to invite applications from suitably qualified and experienced individuals to work within our purpose built facilities at our sites in Moulton. The role will also require travel to our other sites in Silverstone, Higham Ferrers and Daventry.

Duties will include all routine tasks required of animal husbandry to maintain the health, care and welfare of a range of companion and exotic animals. In addition you updating and maintaining records, preparing stock and equipment for use in practical classes, support lecturers and supervise students on commercial experience. Shift patterns operate between 6am – 8pm, lone working and weekend working is a requirement of this post.

A relevant Animal Care/Animal Welfare qualification is essential, as well as experience in a similar role working with a range of species. You will be able to demonstrate an in depth working knowledge of current industry practices. You will be a strong team player and have high personal standards that will naturally align with the Animal Welfare Centre. You will be physically fit as manual handling will be a requirement of this post.

For further details and an application pack, please contact:

Human Resources

Moulton College,

West Street,

Moulton,

Northants.

NN3 7RR.

Telephone; (01604) 491131 Fax; (01604) 645273 Email; jobs@moulton.ac.uk

http://www.moulton.ac.uk/contact-us/work-for-us/job-vacancies

Closing date for applications: 14^th December 2015

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Team Leader - Sea Lion Presenter and Trainer

Team Leader - Sea Lion Presenter and Trainer

Blair Drummond Safari Park

Stirling

Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park is situated in Scotland midway between Glasgow and Edinburgh just 4 miles from Stirling.

A vacancy has arisen for an experienced Sea Lion Presenter/Trainer. This is a full time permanent position and the successful applicant will be required to present Sea Lion displays to visitors during our open season.

Our presentations aim to be interactive, educational and fun and combine a strong conservation message with humour and high energy behaviours. The candidate must be hard-working, motivated and dynamic.

Role and Requirements

The successful applicant will:

•    Oversee the day to day running of the department and manage a small team of staff.

•    Maintain the health and welfare of our Californian Sea Lions, including diets and all husbandry requirements.

•    Maintain the ongoing development of new training and presentation programmes.

•    Have excellent communication and presentation skills, a positive “can do” attitude and work towards the longer-term goals of the safari park.

To apply for this position you must hold the DMZAA qualification or equivalent and hold a full clean driving licence.   

Salary is negotiable according to experience. We offer a good pension scheme and holiday entitlement.

Please complete the on line application form on our website www.blairdrummond.com and send your cv with a short covering letter to Margaret@blairdrummond.com.

   

Closing date for applications is 5pm Friday 11th December 2015.

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Keeper

Keeper

Dartmoor Zoo

Devon

Dartmoor Zoo is currently looking for an experienced, enthusiastic and highly motivated individual to work within our animal department. You will perform general animal husbandry duties to a very high standard with a wide range of animals including big cats, small mammals, hoof stock and birds. You will play an integral role in training, enrichment and maintenance of the animals and their enclosures.

Requirements:

Three years animal husbandry experience.

An animal related qualification such as ANCMZA or DMZAA.

Be able to assist in veterinary duties.

Hold a full UK driving licence due to location.

Have excellent communication skills.

A good team worker with a positive outlook.

Have reasonable IT skills and a knowledge of record keeping.

Two fixed days off per week.

You will be required to work bank holidays and other specified days for special events.

Work some evenings if required.

Please send your CV and a covering letter to colin.northcott@dartmoorzoo.co.uk

Closing date for applications: Friday 04th December 2015

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Experienced Primate Keeper

Experienced Primate Keeper

The Aspinall Foundation is a registered charity that is actively involved with several projects incorporating a diverse range of conservation activities both at their Kent based Howletts Wild Animal Park and Port Lympne Reserve and overseas projects in the Congo, Gabon, Indonesia and Madagascar.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated individual to join our team of dedicated primate keepers at Howletts Wild Animal Park. The ideal candidate will have experience in a mainstream zoological collection (preferably in a similar position) and an awareness of current conservation issues and a passion for animal welfare.

This is a physically demanding position so candidates must be physically fit. A full valid driving licence is essential to the role. Ideally you will posses experience of good all round animal husbandry skills and be enthusiastic in contributing to the enrichment of the primate species around the park. Holding a recognised Zoo Animal Management qualification and being comfortable interacting with the public would be an advantage.

Working 5 days a week, including weekends and bank holidays, the successful candidate will have a genuinely flexible approach to working hours. Single person accommodation may be available.

Howletts Wild Animal Park, situated near Canterbury in Kent, works to support a number of overseas conservation projects including the Java Primate Project in Indonesia. We are home to a collection of around 170 rare and endangered primates, including Javan gibbons, Dusky langurs, Sulawesi macaques, Pied tamarins and Gelada baboons to name a few.

We have recently built a rescue and rehabilitation centre in Java where rare Indonesian primates can be confiscated and taken care of; with a view to either returning them back to the wild or providing them with a better quality of life. Ultimately, captive bred animals may also relocate to the centre, providing offspring that could boost the wild population when reintroduction conditions are right.

All applicants must have right to work in the UK.

Closing date: Friday 18th December 2015.

To apply, please email a CV along with a covering letter to Jo Stephens: joannas@aspinallfoundation.org 

Or post to: Human Resources, Port Lympne Wild Animal Park, Lympne, Hythe, Kent, CT21 4PD

Visit our website at www.aspinallfoundation.org for further information.

Apprentice Zoo Keeper Animal Care Apprenticeship

Drusillas Zoo Park is widely regarded to be one of the best small zoos in the Country. Working alongside our experienced animal keepers you will learn how to provide the highest standards of care and husbandry.

Click HERE to learn more

Science Director

Science Director

Job Description : Chester Zoo is one of the leading zoological collections in Europe, with an international reputation for achieving its mission in conserving biodiversity worldwide through breeding programmes, field conservation, education and research. We extended the zoo this summer with an innovative, immersive experience - Islands anticipating a busy couple of years where we can build on this success.

We currently have an exciting opportunity on offer with a vacancy for a Science Director who will join our Executive Team. The broad objectives of this post are to contribute to the overall organisational strategy by developing and implementing departmental strategy for the Science, Education and Field Programme Directorate.  This translates into:-

    •    Visitor Engagement: providing engaging and educational experiences for >1.5 million visitors a year. (including >30,000 student visits)

    •    Applied Conservation Science: responsible for coordinating scientific activity in the zoo, peer reviewed publications

    •    Field Programmes: Oversee aspects of field programmes and develop synergies with ‘in zoo’ conservation with the Collections Director.

    •    Facilities & Exhibits: Design, delivery and upkeep of interpretative elements to all exhibits (animal / plant and other), formal teaching facilities and library, laboratory

    •    Staffing Accountability: 5 direct reports and circa 40 permanent positions + 40 FTE training positions + circa 150 volunteers

    •    Budgetary accountability: circa £2.75m/year

The major responsibilities of your 5 direct reports are as follows;-

    •    Head of Applied Science: Develop and coordinate zoo-focused applied conservation scientific activities across Chester Zoo to mitigate the loss in biodiversity and aid in the well-being of the Living Collection and their wild counterparts. Ensure Chester Zoo is recognized by its staff, its peers and the public as global leaders in zoo-focused applied conservation science and provide opportunities to develop the future leaders in strategically determined fields of applied conservation science. To work with field programmes to ensure alignment of the zoo and field-focused applied conservation science activities.

   

    •    Head of Conservation Science: To direct the Zoo’s field conservation strategy and scientific portfolio and support the Director General in ensuring the success of the Zoo in line with the organisation’s mission, vision and values. Contribute to and develop the overall organisational strategy, ensuring implementation throughout the Zoo and disseminating within the Field Programmes Division.

   

    •    Head of Field Programmes: To develop and manage field conservation programmes and communications in line with the Zoo’s vision and mission and to achieve the Zoo’s strategic objectives and maximise conservation impact.

   

    •    Head of Discovery & Learning: To develop a conservation education strategy for the zoo, in line with the zoo’s wider strategic development and mission, that inspires people (visitors, staff, partners and the wider community) to take action in support of the natural world. To support others in the delivery of this strategy and provide leadership to the Discovery and Learning Division staff.

   

    •    PA: administrative support to the Directorate (rather than specifically the Director) includes response to public enquiries, booking and minute meetings, national and international travel, and administrative tasks involving collection plan, risk assessment and safe working procedures.

We are therefore looking for someone with extensive knowledge and expertise in:-

    •    Scientific method, project design and scientific writing. Knowledge of wide range of biological sciences.

    •    Field conservation: Managing field projects in a variety of countries, habitats and cultural backgrounds, Conservation impact measurement, basics of population management, conservation techniques.

    •    Education: Principles of formal and informal (public) education / engagement and influence.

    •    Zoo management: Staff training, site management, budget management, Legislation and licencing.

    •    Communication: media, public, scientific community, zoo peers, training, advocacy.

    •    Business practices, Staff training and management: leading teams, budgeting, planning & prioritising, basics of marketing and PR.

    •    Hold a Ph.D in one or more of the following disciplines: Field Conservation/ zoology / conservation psychology or related disciplines.

In conjunction with the other Directors you will be developing the organisation’s strategy and master plan and directing its implementation.  You will also participate in the governance of the organisation ensuring success, credibility and sustainability for the future.

If you would like to receive a full job description for this role or have any specific questions please a1people@chesterzoo.org

Otherwise please apply, providing a full CV and covering letter.

Application URL : http://www.chesterzoo.careers/applynow/ff4cf3b8070e5619?s=ZooNewsDigest

A competitive salary and benefits package are on offer.

Closing date for applications is Monday, 30th November 2015.

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Wildlife Connections Project Officer

Wildlife Connections Project Officer

Job Description : Chester Zoo has 1.43 million zoo visitors a year. It is one of the leading zoological collections in Europe with an international reputation for achieving its mission in conservation, research and education.

We are seeking to recruit a Wildlife Connections Project Officer on a temporary 23 month contract basis within our award winning Discovery & Learning Division. The successful candidate will be highly motivated to work within a dynamic community conservation setting engaging on a regional programme encompassing social science and biodiversity conservation.

Wildlife Connections is Chester Zoo’s new wildlife campaign that aims to create a regional network of skilled people and habitats to enable declining native species to thrive. The Wildlife Connections Project Officer role will enable Chester Zoo to fully deliver this new campaign in 2016 and 2017. They undertake the administration of the project, maintain relationships with community partners, develop and deliver training for community group leaders and create resources for use by those community partners and other project participants. They will also support the wider development of the project campaign, including researching and writing content for the microsite, setting up meetings and co-ordinating events with partners and at the zoo (in collaboration with others on the project team). The role will ensure the project delivers maximum value for money/effort, serving the strategic objectives of the organisation. The role requires the post holder to work extensively across different departments and with external colleagues.

The ideal candidate will have:

    •    Experience coordinating and administering community programmes and projects, preferably within a zoo, aquarium or other environmental education or conservation focused organisation.

    •    Appropriate knowledge of conservation and the key issues threatening the natural world today, particularly with a focus on UK native species. This is likely to be demonstrated by a relevant degree and/or extensive experience within a conservation organisation or similar environment

    •    Relevant experience leading training and/or delivering workshops to adult audiences from a wide variety of backgrounds.

    •    Experience developing high quality resources for learning, both paper based and digitally.

    •    Exceptional communication and presentation skills, demonstrated through a wide range of experience presenting to different audiences, teaching and delivering learning in different formats (workshops, presentations, talks, tours etc.)

    •    Experience working collaboratively with a wide range of community partners, including stakeholder engagement.

    •    Experience of using learning programmes to bring about social change, ideally encouraging sustainable behaviours.

Additional qualities required are:

    •    Attention to detail and proof reading skills are essential.

    •    Skills in the use of Microsoft Office and use of digital technologies for public engagement. Film editing and ability to manipulate and edit images would be an advantage.

    •    Excellent time management and planning skills. Ability to coordinate multiple project activities, meeting deadlines and ensuring appropriate quality control.

    •    Excellent diplomacy and interpersonal skills. Ability to work effectively under own initiative and as part of a team, to work under pressure with positive attitude, and also to enthuse and engage others.

You will be required to work 35 hours per week within a 5 in 7 roster system which will include weekends and Bank Holidays. Flexibility is required to meet the needs of the project. Salary is £19,133 per annum.

To apply for this position, please provide your current CV and covering letter stating why you believe you should be considered for this role.

Application URL : http://www.chesterzoo.careers/applynow/8d0361300eb1f9f0?s=ZooNewsDigest

Closing date for applications is 22nd November 2015.

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Experienced Exotic Veterinarian

Experienced Exotic Veterinarian

Tai Wai Small Animal and Exotic Hospital in Hong Kong is a well established 24 hour hospital that prides itself on providing the highest standard of care and compassion for all our exotic and small animal patients.

We are looking for an experienced exotic veterinarian to work in a new exclusively exotic hospital we are opening on Hong Kong Island. It will be equipped with all the specialist equipment necessary to provide a high level of care for exotics and will have wards dedicated for different exotic species.

The position would ideally suit a veterinarian with at least 4 years experience with exotics and have ideally completed a post-graduate qualification. We have an ABVP (Exotic Companion Mammal) specialist on staff available to mentor veterinarians pursuing further studies in exotics.

Compassion, a good sense of humor and great interpersonal skills are a must.

Our emphasis is on a 'team approach' to high quality medicine and surgery.

The position involves working 5 days per week. Benefits include one month annual and one week CPD leave per year. CPD is actively encouraged and an allowance is provided. Salary is production related with a guaranteed base.

Applicants must have graduated from a University classified under Schedule 1 or 2, of 'Qualifications recognized for registration as a veterinary surgeon in Hong Kong' of the Hong Kong Veterinary Surgeons Board.

For further information on our main Hospital please see www.taiwaiexotic.com

If you are interested in the above position please send your CV and a cover letter indicating why you are interested in this position to hr@taiwaiexotic.com

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Deputy Section Head: Large Mammals

Deputy Section Head: Large Mammals

Twycross Zoo is at a very exciting stage of development with the first phase of a 20 year masterplan already underway. The plan will see the zoo developing new habitats for a refreshed animal collection starting with Giraffe Savannah and Gibbon Forest in 2015.

We currently have a vacancy for a Deputy Section Head to work on our Large Mammals section. This area manages a variety of hoofstock, carnivores and our herd of 5 Asian Elephants.

Key Responsibilities:

· A hands-on role, working on the section

· Supervising all areas of daily animal husbandry

· Developing, supervising and training staff

· Taking administrative responsibility alongside other senior staff within the Large Mammals Section

Key Skills & Requirements:

· High performing and enthusiastic

· Proven track record of working with large mammals in a protected contact system

· Substantial experience of zoological animal management, with at least 8 years’ relevant experience

· Able to demonstrate good working knowledge of the natural history and management of large mammals

· Good team worker with positive outlook

· Excellent communication and IT skills

· Committed to continued professional development of yourself and others

· An animal related qualification such as ANCMZA or DZMAA

This is a full time position, including weekend duties on a rota system. Salary is paid monthly and we provide uniform and 31 days holiday (including bank holidays).

Please apply on-line by sending your CV with a covering letter to recruitment@twycrosszoo.org

This vacancy will close as soon as sufficient applications have been received, therefore you should submit your application as soon as possible.

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Aquarist

VACANCY: AQUARIST - MATERNITY COVER, THE DEEP

The Aquarist is an integral part of the Husbandry team, reporting to the senior staff in this department.

TERMS

This post is a fixed term contract to cover maternity leave and will terminate in November 2016. The salary is £17262 per annum. 

The hours of work are 39 per week, working one in three weekends on a rota basis. Some out of hours and bank holiday work can also be expected due to the nature of the job. Other benefits include 25 days holiday per annum, plus bank holidays and pension scheme.

JOB SUMMARY

The main duties involved in the position will be participation in the routine feeding and maintenance of the displays and quarantine. This will involve working with other team members to maintain the displays, livestock and Life Support Systems.

RESPONSIBILITIES

•        Maintenance of livestock and exhibits to an exemplary standard that fulfils zoo licensing and curatorial standards.

•        Adherence to company policies with regards to record keeping, water testing, aquatic animal health monitoring and safe working practices.

•        Actively contribute to research programmes undertaken by the Husbandry Department.

•        To assist in the positive promotion of the image of The Deep at all times.

•        Ensure that the company’s policy on Health and Safety is adhered to during your work activities.

•        Comply with the staffing rota as set out by Senior Staff.

•        Aid the Husbandry department to achieve the target of maintaining the fabric of The Deep to a standard acceptable to the Chief Executive.

•        Co-operate fully with the entire staff of The Deep with the aim of making The Deep a truly world class Visitor Attraction.

•        Aid the senior Husbandry staff in developing any new exhibition areas/revised displays.

•        Participate in staff training and assessment.

OTHER

•        The successful applicant shall also be required to undertake any general duties as determined by their line manager.

•        A reasonable amount of physical work will be involved in carrying out your duties.

•        You are expected to participate in all training provided by The Deep.

•        Due to the nature of the business the successful applicant will be required to work some weekends and evenings.

Person Specification

Essential:

Can demonstrate:

•        Knowledge of terrestrial invertebrate species and their husbandry.

•        A commitment to The Deep, and its environmental and ethical policies  

•        Enthusiasm and commitment to working in animal care.

•        Self-motivation.

•        Excellent team-working skills and good verbal communication skills.

•        Excellent attention to detail.

•        Reliability (good time-keeping and attendance)

•        Qualification in biology, marine biology, zoology and/or general science at college or university level.

•        Good knowledge of principles of zoology, aquatic biology and a keen interest in environmental matters.

•        A willingness to learn and a commitment to self-improvement.

Desirable:

•        Demonstrable commitment to animal conservation either through voluntary work placements, projects or fundraising events.

•        Good practical ability with items such as pumps and filters.

•        A keen interest in marine matters.

•        Knowledge of amphibian and reptile species and their husbandry.

•        A dive qualification.

TO APPLY:

Download and complete application form from www.thedeep.co.uk or collect a paper application form from The Deep visitor attraction reception or retail desk between 10am and 5pm each day.  For queries please contact: Louise Kirby at louise.kirby@thedeep.co.uk, 01482 381004.  Deadline for receipt of completed application 9am, Monday 16 November 2015.  Interviews are likely to be held week commencing 23 November 2015.

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