Director of Science (Full-Time / Permanent)

Help us use science to stop wild animals going extinct

Established in 1826 for the advancement of Zoology through science - our commitment to science remains at the heart of ZSL.  We are an influential part of the global scientific community with the Institute of Zoology partnering with over 300 institutions in 70 countries.  The Institute also plays a critical role in the work of ZSL through collaboration with our two outstanding zoos and field conservation programmes.

The Director of Science role offers an exciting opportunity to lead our talented science community to support the delivery of ZSL’s strategy ZSL200 and our vision for a world where wildlife thrives. As the Director, you will bring outstanding leadership, coherence and engagement to the Science Directorate within. Working in collaboration with our funding and academic partners, Research England,  University College London and the Royal Veterinary College you will ensure the whole team is engaged, high performing, and focused achieving the following goals for the Directorate to support the implementation of ZSL’s strategy in the following areas:

• A world leading centre of research excellence in conservation science.
• Accelerating the translation and use of research to maximise conservation impact.
• Building capacity in students and conservation professionals through our unique education and training environment.
• Inspiring new and diverse audiences to care about and better understand biodiversity conservation, particularly in the areas of wildlife health, saving endangered species and interactions between people and wildlife.

For more details on the Institute of Zoology - Science for Conservation and Research Impacts please click here.

A key leadership position at ZSL, responsible to the Director General, Dominic Jermey, you will be a highly credible Scientist with a successful academic track record in a relevant area of research. You will need to be a highly collaborative team-player, who will bring exceptional people management skill  You will also be a passionate advocate of ZSL and highly effective at building external relationships with a wide range stakeholders to raise ZSL’s profile, articulate our work and vision as well as attract funding.

If you want to be at the forefront of changing the fortunes of wildlife, through ground-breaking science we would be delighted to receive your application for the role. 

Benefit Package:

This role offers a competitive salary plus a comprehensive benefits package including 30 days annual leave, USS pension scheme where the employer minimum contribution is 21.1%, complimentary zoo tickets and more.    

For more information please refer to the full Job Description which can be downloaded by clicking here.

Applicants will need to upload:

• A 2-page max cover letter (detailing how you meet the requirements of the role and why you want to work at ZSL);
• A full CV (including grants, awards and a full publications list);
• Complete the Equality of Opportunity Monitoring Questions when applying through the website which can all be done by clicking the "Apply for this job online" button on the following link. 

Should you have any questions about the post or if you have any issues when applying through the system please direct informal enquiries to Aaron Thomas (Resourcing Business Partner) at hr@zsl.org.

Closing Date: Midnight (23:59) Sunday 29th March 2020.

First Stage Interview Date: W/c. 20th April 2020

Second Stage Interview Date: W/c. 27th April 2020

The Zoological Society of London is a charity registered in England and Wales: no. 208728.