Senior Scientist, Head of Research Impact

Summary

Join Global Fishing Watch (GFW) as a Senior Scientist, Head of Research Impact and lead efforts to translate cutting-edge datasets into meaningful outcomes for ocean conservation. This leadership role involves cultivating partnerships with NGOs and the research community, ensuring effective data application. You will oversee a small team of researchers and data scientists, guiding impactful research projects resulting in publications, datasets, or inputs into GFW's public-facing tools. The position requires a Bachelor's degree in ocean science or a related field and at least seven years of professional experience, or an equivalent combination. Strong communication and team management skills are essential. GFW offers competitive compensation and benefits commensurate with experience and location.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in ocean science or a related field and at least seven years of professional experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Proven ability to build partnerships within the research and NGO communities, especially in areas related to ocean science
• An understanding of how satellite imagery, GPS data, and machine learning can contribute to marine conservation and better ocean management
• At least two years of team management experience, with the ability to lead and motivate researchers in a dynamic, fully remote, and global organization
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to convey complex scientific information to a variety of audiences, including non-technical partners
• At least some experience with Python or R

Responsibilities

• Identify Strategic Partnerships: In collaboration with the GFW Program team, develop high-impact collaborations with NGOs, researchers, and other key stakeholders to ensure our datasets are driving real-world change in ocean conservation
• Lead Research Initiatives: Oversee research projects that leverage GFW’s satellite and GPS data to address issues like fisheries management, marine pollution, and the environmental impacts of shipping, offshore energy, and mining
• Team Management: Provide leadership and technical guidance to a small team of researchers and data scientists, fostering an innovative and collaborative work environment
• Set Research Strategy: Work with senior leadership to define research priorities and ensure that GFW’s work continues to deliver on its mission of safeguarding our oceans
• Assist identifying new funding: While not the primary focus of this role, in the act of identifying new partnerships and projects, this role will be in a position to identify and assist with funding proposals

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD in ocean science or a related field
• Significant experience with Python, R, or SQL
• Experience working with satellite imagery and GPS data
• Familiarity with the ethical considerations of data privacy and bias in remote sensing

Benefits

• Pension/retirement
• Health and other benefits commensurate with similar level GFW employees in the country of employment
• Remote work