Coral Reef Ecologist, Research, Pristine Seas (Science & Innovation) jobs in United States
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National Geographic Society · 6 hours ago

Coral Reef Ecologist, Research, Pristine Seas (Science & Innovation)

National Geographic Society is a globally recognized organization dedicated to exploration and conservation. They are seeking a Coral Reef Ecologist to conduct high-impact scientific research, support coral reef expeditions, and contribute to scientific publications aimed at protecting marine ecosystems.

Non Profit
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Responsibilities

Collaborate with scientists from around the world in the creation of high-impact scientific publications, which utilize Pristine Seas data and research to highlight the importance of these remote areas in better understanding how pristine ecosystems function
Lead the production of at least one scientific publication in high-quality peer-reviewed journals each year
Lead the writing of at least one expedition scientific report per year
Participate in conferences to report on Pristine Seas scientific findings, as agreed upon with the Executive Director
Disseminate scientific information to a variety of stakeholders from academics, to government agencies, local communities, and school groups
Lead coral taxonomy surveys while on expedition
Collaborate with VP of Research and Expedition Science lead to plan and participate in 1-2 expeditions per year
Assist in development of expedition science plans
Assist with operation and execution of existing pristine seas data collections methods as needed in the field
Provide oral briefings, presentations, and written material to support Pristine Seas’ mission
Provide content and review Pristine Seas policy documents, presentations, and briefing materials
Work with the Communications and Education teams to disseminate research
Assist in developing educational products in collaboration with the NGS Education department
Support the purchasing of scientific gear and other administrative needs for the science team

Qualification

Coral reef ecologyMarine biologyData analysisScientific publicationCoral taxonomyQuantitative analytical skillsR programmingQGISArcGISScuba certificationField survey trainingCommunicationTeamworkLeadershipProblem-solvingInterpersonal skillsInitiativeIntegrity

Required

PhD in Marine Biology or a related field from an R1 research university, is strongly preferred
10+ years of professional work experience in marine science and conservation
Extensive publication record (30 scientific publications or more with at least five first authored)
Experience with non-profit, environmental, academic, and governmental organizations
Experience participating in and/or leading scientific expeditions
Experience working in remote locations for extended periods of time
Willingness to travel up to 50% of the time, including both domestic and international travel
Broad understanding of marine ecosystems and conservation issues in the tropics
Knowledge of coral taxonomy in the tropical Pacific
Ability to convey complex scientific concepts to a broad range of audiences (e.g., scientists, policy makers, public, students)
Ability to lead first-author scientific papers
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Strong teamwork ethic and ability to successfully work within a highly collaborative team environment
Strong quantitative analytical skills, competency in analytical software and methods, including R, QGIS, ArcGIS, GitHub, Microsoft Office
Excellent organizational skills with high attention to detail
Strong leadership skills
Ability to anticipate problems and find creative solutions to challenging situations
Ability to take initiative on tasks that advance the team's mission
Ability to work with minimal instruction and supervision
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate professionally in a fast-paced, dynamic team environment
Strong personal and professional integrity
Advanced scuba certification is essential with at least 500 dives
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment

Preferred

Masters Degree in relevant field preferred
Post-doctoral experience is preferred
Expertise in coral reef ecology and conservation
Experience in underwater visual observation methods and analysis such as BRUV's (baited underwater video)
Experience with deep sea research
Experience with eDNA collections and analysis
Experience in managing and analyzing large datasets
Experience in training and leading field surveys for ecological studies
Experience with and capacity sharing with local communities
Experience with scientific, governmental and non-profit organizations in the tropical Pacific
SCUBA Rescue Diver, Nitrox diver, CPR, first-aid, AED, and oxygen administration (Emergency First Response)

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Engaging and comprehensive wellness program
401(k) retirement savings plan with matching contributions after 6 months of employment
Flexible paid time off benefits with up to 22 days of paid annual leave per calendar year (15 days for new hires in their first year, prorated based on the number of pay periods remaining in the year)
10 days of sick leave
12 paid holidays
Paid winter break between December 25 and 31 (May not apply to all roles that are required to work during high volume seasons or essential workers. Please check with the hiring manager for confirmation.)
Paid parental leave
Adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement
Fertility benefits
Learning and development opportunities
Lifestyle Spending Account
Pet adoption assistance and insurance
Pre-tax transportation benefits with a generous employer subsidy
Employer-paid life insurance and disability benefit
A variety of National Geographic discounts and perks

Company

National Geographic Society

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National Geographic Society has funded the best and brightest individuals dedicated to scientific discovery and understanding of our world.

Funding

Current Stage
Late Stage
Total Funding
$3.5M
Key Investors
Principal FoundationAlfred P. Sloan Foundation
2025-11-12Grant· $0.5M
2012-01-01Grant· $1.5M
2008-01-01Grant· $1.5M

Leadership Team

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Jill Tiefenthaler
Chief Executive Officer
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Caroline Tippett
Vice President of Institutional Partnerships
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