Marine Mammal Scientist - Postdoctoral Research Associate

Fixed Term Contract - 30 months

The role of the postdoctoral research associate (PDRA) marine mammal scientist will support the EU funded BLUE CONNECT project within the Scottish/ Shetland case study and support the development of wider project objectives. The Blue Connect project together with Marine Protected Area (MPA) managers, authorities, industries, and local communities from 12 Demonstration sites and beyond, will co-develop, promote, and demonstrate a systematic approach to marine conservation planning and management.

This collaborative effort will result in the creation of a powerful Blueprint, directly supporting

1) setting science-based conservation objectives

2) co-defining conservation actions for effective MPA co-management

3) ensuring conservation effectiveness and

4) demonstrating the high potential of these tools for replicability and broader use.

This will be made possible by establishing a holistic modelling framework that integrates various elements of biodiversity, ecological functioning, ecosystem services, and connectivity, while also considering inputs from stakeholders and local communities regarding social, economic, and cultural aspects when defining MPAs and ecological corridors.

The project will contribute to a more comprehensive, science-based and inclusive approach to designating new MPAs or expanding existing ones, transitioning to strict protection, restoring ecosystems, enhancing ecological connectivity, and facilitating MPA co-management. By fostering just and fair stakeholder cooperation and citizen science initiatives, BLUE CONNECT will build a greater feeling of co-ownership of protected and restored marine ecosystems and MPA networks and empower communities to play a crucial role in safeguarding our seas.

The Scottish case study will explicitly examine the potential for community led development of conservation measures and monitoring for Harbour Porpoises. The use of innovative and affordable technologies to support community monitoring will be explored within the Shetland case study.

UHI Shetland

UHI Shetland is the most northern partner of the University of the Highlands and Islands, offering well-equipped, modern facilities and provision of a variety of tertiary education courses, applied research, consultancies and knowledge exchange projects together with high-quality accredited and bespoke training.

UHI Shetland mirrors NJNC terms and conditions for Scotland’s College’s Home (njncscotlandscolleges.ac.uk)

Distant Islands Allowance is currently set at £2,742 (pro rata) which would be in addition to any salary payment.

UHI Shetland is an equal opportunities employer operating a blind recruitment process and will not accept CVs as application.

Please download and complete the application form attached and return to recruitment.shetland@uhi.ac.uk