Researcher & Fieldworker Marine Monitoring (Bonaire)

Diergaarde Blijdorp; Bonaire; On-site; EUR 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Rotterdam Zoo (Diergaarde Blijdorp) invites an independent researcher to lead a 12-month field study on Bonaire's RoffaReefs project. The consultant will conduct data collection, analysis and deliver a validated dataset alongside a final analytical report.

The freelance contractor will work ~0.6–0.8 FTE with an indicative rate of USD 35 per hour, focusing on independent trials, reporting and knowledge transfer to interns.

Qualifications

• Required: degree in Marine Biology, Ecology or related field.
• Experience in marine field research and data processing.
• Ability to analyze data and report results clearly.

Responsibilities

• Conduct fieldwork and collect spawning/egg data on Bonaire.
• Analyze data and deliver a validated dataset.
• Prepare an analytical report and contribute to a scientific publication.
• Present findings to the project team and transfer knowledge.

Skills

Marine biology

Fieldwork

Data analysis

Statistics

Education

Bachelor's or MSc in Marine Biology / Ecology

Tools

R

Excel

Job description

Rotterdam Zoo (Diergaarde Blijdorp) is currently undergoing an important development phase to realize the ambitions outlined in its Master Plan 2050. Within the Blijdorp Conservation & Science Center, and specifically for our Caribbean Coast Impact Hub, we are looking for a:

24-32 hours per week

Rotterdam Zoo is committed not only to conservation within the zoo itself, but also to the protection and restoration of ecosystems worldwide. For the RoffaReefs project on Bonaire, we are seeking an independent professional to carry out a defined research and monitoring project focused on fish spawning behavior and egg collection.

This is a temporary, results-oriented assignment with a clearly defined start and end date. The role focuses on independently conducting research, fieldwork, data analysis, and delivering tangible scientific outcomes.

• Duration: Approximately 12 months
• Commitment: Average of 0.6 - 0.8 FTE
• Contract Type: Freelance / Independent Contractor (ZZP)
• Indicative Rate: Approximately USD 35 per hour

1. Fieldwork and Data Collection

• Execute a predetermined monitoring protocol;
• Collect and document spawning and egg data;
• Deliver a validated dataset;
• Provide scientific guidance to interns contributing to data collection within the project.

2. Data Analysis

• Clean and structure research data;
• Perform statistical analyses;
• Deliver an analytical report including interpretation of the results.
• Contribute substantively to a scientific publication;
• Present research findings to the project team.

4. Knowledge Transfer and Documentation

• Document fieldwork protocols;
• Deliver a handover document for future use.

Candidate Profile

We are looking for an independent researcher with expertise in marine research and experience in fieldwork and data processing.

You have:

• A relevant Bachelor's or Master's degree, for example in Marine Biology, Ecology, or a related field;
• Experience with marine field research;
• Experience in data analysis and statistical processing of research data;
• Strong written and verbal communication skills;
• An independent, proactive, and results-driven working style.

Additional Requirements

• You are a resident of and based on Bonaire;
• You are qualified and able to conduct diving activities;
• You hold your own diving accident insurance;
• You are registered as an independent contractor/self-employed professional;
• You are available for the duration of the project.

Want to Know More?

For questions about this assignment, please contact Jeroen Kappelhof Director Conservation & Science via [e-mail]