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- Tasks: Assist with conservation genetics projects, including analysis and reporting.
- Company: Join the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, a leader in wildlife conservation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 34 days annual leave, healthcare plans, and discounts at zoos.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in wildlife conservation while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: MSc level education in a relevant field and experience in genetic analysis required.
- Other info: This is a 3-year fixed term position with opportunities for salary progression.
The predicted salary is between 28037 - 28738 £ per year.
RZSS – Edinburgh Zoo
Scotland Closing date for applications is: 15th Aug 2025
To assist with the implementation and dissemination of conservation genetics projects, to agreed standards and under the appropriate guidance and support within the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) WildGenes team.
This is a 3-year fixed term position
Some of the things you’ll do:
- To take responsibility for delivery of conservation genetic projects being run by the WildGenes team, to include experimental design, analysis, administration and reporting
- Undertake analyses on a wide variety of genetic datasets, including mitochondrial DNA, microsatellites and SNPs generated via RADseq, target capture or genome resequencing (where required)
- To contribute to the dissemination of WildGenes research through the preparation of project reports and/or manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed journal.
- Where required, work closely with the research scientists on bioinformatic analyse and assist the Research Scientist(s), in conducting literature reviews, as well as qualitative and quantitative research
- To represent and act as an RZSS ambassador at meetings (internal and external) and conferences with knowledge of conservation genetics
- Ensure the cycle of monitoring, evaluating, and learning is part of project design and reporting.
- Ensure that, where appropriate, scientific activities follow the guidance from relevant bodies of authority to ensure legal compliance, for example, EAZA, BIAZA, CITES, Defra, Home Office, Zoo Licencing, GDPR
What we’re looking for:
- Educated to MSc level (or equivalent experience) in a relevant discipline
- Ability to apply knowledge regarding the application of population genetics to wildlife conservation management
- At least one publication in a peer-reviewed scientific journal
- Ability to collaborate with a range of external partners including scientific and applied conservation organisations
- Proficient in standard genetic analysis and experience of standard molecular genetic laboratory techniques and of population genetic and genomic data analysis including the use of coding in R, unix or similar.
- Experience of project management
What you’ll getin return:
- Starting salary between £28,037 – £28,738 (offer based on experience) with future salary progression up to £31,250 per annum
- 34 days annual leave (pro rata)
- Discount in both retail/catering
- Access to a healthcare plan
- Access to Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), that provide 24-hour counselling and support, including health, legal, finance, wellbeing and family advice
- Employer contributory pension scheme
- You will receive a staff membership which will give you (and family/friends) free (and discounted) entry to both the Highland Wildlife Park and Edinburgh Zoo as well as a number of other Zoo’s across the UK.
Please note that shortlisting of applications and interviews for this position will take place while the advert is live. The advert will close once a successful candidate has been found.
Interested candidates are therefore encouraged to submit applications, as soon as possible.
Apply for this job:
For further information and details on how to apply please visit:
BIAZA\’s office hours are 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday. Contact outside of those times will get a response when we are next in the office.
If your enquiry is urgent and you need a response before the BIAZA office reopens, please call Jo Judge on 07593 580602. If you wish to reach one of our members, please contact them directly.
The British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums is a charitable company limited by guarantee and registered in England and Wales number 6789783.Registered Office Regent’s Park, London NW1 4RY. Registered Charity Number is 1128168 and SC040783 (Scotland)
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Research Assistant (WildGenes) employer: BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums)
Contact Detail:
BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant (WildGenes)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and research in conservation genetics. This will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the field and the work of the WildGenes team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the conservation genetics community. Attend relevant conferences or workshops, and engage with researchers on platforms like LinkedIn to build connections that could support your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with genetic analysis tools and coding languages like R. Be ready to provide examples of how you've applied these skills in past projects, as this will be crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your project management experience by discussing specific projects you've led or contributed to. Highlight your ability to collaborate with diverse teams, as this is essential for working with external partners in conservation.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant (WildGenes)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Research Assistant position. Make sure you can demonstrate how your skills and experiences align with the tasks outlined.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any relevant experience in conservation genetics, project management, and data analysis. Mention specific projects or publications that showcase your expertise in these areas.
Tailor Your Application: Customise your application materials to reflect the specific needs of the WildGenes team. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what they are looking for and how you fit into their vision.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your documents for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial for a research role.
How to prepare for a job interview at BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums)
✨Know Your Genetics
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of conservation genetics, especially the techniques mentioned in the job description like mitochondrial DNA analysis and SNPs. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show your expertise and enthusiasm for the role.
✨Prepare for Project Management Questions
Since project management experience is crucial for this position, think of specific examples from your past work where you successfully managed a project. Be ready to discuss how you planned, executed, and evaluated the project outcomes.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
The role requires collaboration with various partners, so be prepared to share experiences where you worked effectively in a team. Highlight any partnerships with scientific or conservation organisations to demonstrate your ability to collaborate.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Relevant Regulations
Understanding the legal compliance aspects mentioned, such as EAZA and CITES, is essential. Research these regulations and be ready to discuss how they impact conservation genetics projects, showing that you are well-informed and responsible.
