Job Advert : Seabird Field Assistant
Location: UK seabird colonies
Salary: Salary at grade 04S point 1. Any travel between field sites + field accommodation are
also covered.
Duration: May 15th- August 15th 2024
OxNav is seeking a Field Assistant for a 3-month duration (from May 15th to August 15th) to aid
in gathering Manx Shearwater tracking data. OxNav, a research group in the Department of
Biology, University of Oxford, focuses on studying seabird movement and navigation.
The primary responsibility of the Field Assistant involves supporting projects aimed at deepening
our understanding of shearwater behaviour, thereby contributing valuable insights for more
informed assessments related to offshore wind activities. This role will mainly entail assisting in
tracking Manx shearwaters across three SPA seabird colonies: Skomer, Rum, and Lighthouse
Island (Copelands). The position requires the Field Assistant to reside at field sites alongside a
small team of seabird biologists.
Manx shearwaters, a member of the procellariform seabirds, commonly nest in burrows, with the
majority of the global breeding population concentrated in the UK. Since shearwaters are
nocturnal, most tracking activities will take place at night, requiring the Field Assistant to be
prepared for consecutive night shifts during tracking periods. Fieldwork, and access to at least
one of the field sites, is physically demanding. This opportunity is well-suited for an individual
seeking to acquire field experience and pursue a career in seabird biology. The role requires a
positive attitude toward fieldwork, as well as a willingness to live and work in remote locations
alongside a small team.
Responsibilities/duties
• Assisting in shearwater tracking through monitoring study burrows, bird handling and
aiding with the deployment of biotelemetry devices where necessary
• Aiding in the day-to-day running of the field site, for example maintaining and locating
study burrows
• Supporting the programming, testing, and preparation of biotelemetry devices for
deployment
• Contributing to long-term data where necessary through monitoring chick growth, key
phenological dates and taking measurements of egg size.
• Assisting with OxNavs ongoing research projects and navigation studies where necessary
• Uploading and recording data in a clear and organised fashion, spotting discrepancies and
proposing refinements where necessary
• Entering data and maintaining databases
• Maintaining equipment and contributing to the general cleanliness and upkeep of the field
site.
Selection criteria
Essential
• Educated to at least degree level or equivalent qualification in biology or related discipline
• Strong attention to detail, with the ability to organise field activities and record data in a
clear and organised fashion
• Proficient in practical skills, adept at applying hands-on abilities effectively in various
tasks and situations.
• Possesses strong teamwork abilities and excellent interpersonal skills, adept at living and
working harmoniously within a team environment
• IT skills including a knowledge of Word, Excel (i.e. data basing) and Powerpoint
programs
• Ability to organise your own work load and take initiative as appropriate
• Enthusiastic about seabird biology with a strong desire to build a career in this field
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations
• Right to work in the UK
Desirable
• Experience of handling or ringing seabirds
• Previous fieldwork experience working in remote locations
• Clean UK driving licence
• BTO ringing or trainee ringing permit
We are looking to conduct interviews for this position from early February 2024. For further
information contact katrina.siddiqi-davies@biology.ox.ac.uk.
As part of this application process you will be asked to provide a copy of your CV and cover
letter.
As an equal opportunities’ employer, the University of Oxford is committed to fostering an
inclusive and diverse environment. We strive to create a workplace that promotes fairness,
equality, and respect for all members of our community, ensuring that everyone has an equal
opportunity to thrive and succeed.
