Coastal Oceans Research and Development in the Indian Ocean (CORDIO) was initiated in 1999 as a response to the El-Niño related mass bleaching and mortality of corals in the Indian Ocean in 1998. It is a non-profit research organization, registered in Kenya, with a network of projects, collaborators and partners that extends across the Indian Ocean.

The Role

CORDIO is currently recruiting a Fish Ecology Researcher to be based in Mombasa, Kenya, with frequent travel.  The role involves technical expertise in reef fish ecology, contributing to coral reef monitoring, and supporting various projects within CORDIO.

Responsibilities: 

• Support CORDIO’s coral reef research team in biodiversity surveys across the Western Indian Ocean, including acting as lead observer for reef fish surveys.
• Manage visual census and other fish databases and data analysis.
• Engage in report writing, contributing to scientific publications, and presenting research findings at various academic and professional platforms.
• Be a key member of CORDIO’s reef fish ecology research team.
• Assist in fisheries activities and meetings with fishers.

Requirements

Technical Skills:

• MSc/BSc degree in Marine Science/Marine Biology/Conservation Biology/Environmental Science/Oceanography or related field.
• More than 2 years of marine research experience, with writing/publication outputs.
• Experience in field research design, data management and analysis.
• Experienced diver with at least PADI Open Water or equivalent qualification.
• Proficient in Microsoft Suite software, and R.
• Strong oral and written communication skills in English.

Management and Interpersonal Skills: 

• Self-motivated with strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to maintain trust and confidentiality.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

 Implementation: 

• Willingness to work extended hours and in strenuous field conditions.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Kenyan National or Resident