Principal Research Scientist at World Fish

Description About WorldFish World Fish, an international research organization, is dedicated to enhancing aquatic food systems to alleviate hunger, malnutrition, and poverty worldwide. Through strategic partnerships with global, regional, and national entities, the organization co-creates and implements scientific breakthroughs, policy-relevant evidence, and actionable knowledge. This collaborative effort drives equitable and inclusive progress for the millions of people who rely on fish and other aquatic resources for their livelihoods and nutritional needs. By advancing science and innovation, World Fish’s country-specific initiatives contribute to achieving multiple 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. With a mission centered on fostering healthy populations, a thriving planet, and collective prosperity, the organization remains committed to transformative impact. About the Position The FAST team, dedicated to the Development and Scaling of Sustainable Feeds for Resilient Aquatic Food Systems in Sub-Saharan Africa, is a multidisciplinary research and development unit focused on enhancing aquaculture through innovative, cost-effective, and sustainable fish feed solutions. Collaborating with research and academic institutions, governmental bodies, private sector stakeholders, and farming communities, the team designs, evaluates, and implements locally sourced feed technologies to boost fish productivity, improve livelihoods, and strengthen food and nutrition security throughout Sub-Saharan Africa. The Senior Research Associate leads, executes, and oversees daily research activities in both laboratory and field settings at NRDC, ensuring strict adherence to established protocols and the successful completion of operational tasks. This position requires close collaboration with teams, stakeholders, and trainees to facilitate smooth workflows, promote knowledge exchange, and foster meaningful community engagement in research initiatives. Responsibilities include managing operational research tasks to meet deadlines, maintaining orderly and hazard-free work environments, tracking inventory and equipment status, and upholding high standards in data collection, reporting, and waste management. The Senior Research Associate will provide support to the Senior Scientist, Research Specialist, and Research Assistant by helping to execute research and development initiatives, organizing research data, and aiding in the preparation of additional research-related tasks as needed. Key Responsibilities Main Purpose of Job: Conduct, oversee, and track daily laboratory research activities, including feeding experimental fish, assessing their health and behavior, and measuring water quality parameters in accordance with established protocols and guidelines to ensure the successful execution of experiments, trials, or surveys. Responsible for the oversight, preparation, upkeep, and repair of all materials and equipment utilized in wet laboratory experiments, including experimental systems, water quality instruments, aeration and water circulation devices, fish handling and sampling tools, feeding and feed preparation apparatus, laboratory instruments, as well as cleaning and maintenance supplies—all in strict accordance with the research plan to ensure seamless and efficient operations. Oversee the collection and processing of samples to guarantee accurate preparation for subsequent analysis. Conduct experiments by performing designated procedures and routine tasks, including executing growth sample procedures, documenting growth metrics and feed consumption data, gathering biological samples, verifying the precision of collected data, and maintaining experimental systems and equipment to uphold research integrity. Gather, document, and verify data using electronic devices like tablets or computers, maintaining the integrity of data systems while conducting preliminary data analysis as required. Additionally, prepare structured datasheets to facilitate organized data collection and reporting for research purposes. Data collection involves overseeing and performing the acquisition of both routine and experimental data to guarantee thorough and precise data capture. Assisting in the following: Scaling of FASA activities We organize and execute conferences, workshops, field trips, and other initiatives focused on research, development, and technology transfer. The incumbent will be responsible for compiling and submitting both interim and final project reports, ensuring accurate documentation of progress and outcomes. Researchers are expected to create and disseminate scientific papers, policy briefs, and blog posts as part of their professional responsibilities. Project results and other publications shall be disseminated as directed. Collaborative engagement, communication, and teamwork responsibilities form the core of this position. Oversee team member performance during research operations to confirm all tasks are executed efficiently and in compliance with established standards. Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams to streamline operations, ensuring efficient management of logistical requirements including machinery, inventory, and material availability. Maintain regular communication with the supervisor or client to promptly report any issues that may impact service delivery and ensure timely resolution. Collaborate with stakeholders—including community members, local authorities, and government agencies—to secure their participation in research initiatives while maintaining transparent communication and cultivating productive working relationships through timely updates on key project developments. The Laboratory team is responsible for organizing and scheduling laboratory activities, assigning tasks to team members, and monitoring their execution to ensure efficient workflow. Additionally, they oversee the implementation of lab research demonstrations for partner organizations, highlighting methods and results while ensuring clear communication of the research process. Key responsibilities include ensuring the prompt and high-quality delivery of services. The incumbent is responsible for ensuring the efficient and timely execution of workplace activities while maintaining strict adherence to established standards and protocols. Maintain and uphold workspace standards in accordance with established protocols, ensuring cleanliness, orderliness, and safety across the laboratory and other work areas. Additionally, prepare frequently used solutions and materials, manage inventory, and place orders for chemicals and supplies as needed. Properly dispose of waste in compliance with regulatory guidelines. Maintain all field and laboratory equipment in proper working order, ensuring regular calibration and prompt repair as necessary. Monitor water quality and perform routine maintenance on systems and facilities to ensure compliance with established research standards and regulatory requirements. Requirements You may find this opportunity to be a suitable fit if you possess the qualifications and skills outlined below: A Bachelor’s Degree in Fish Feeds and Nutrition, Biology, Aquaculture, or Fisheries is required, along with demonstrated experience in conducting experimental work involving fish. Possession of a Master’s Degree will be considered an additional benefit. Desirable Skills/Experience Seasoned in conducting and overseeing standard research operations in both field and laboratory environments. We seek candidates with a proven track record in establishing and optimizing research initiatives in alignment with well-defined parameters. Collaborative experience in executing standard research tasks across various teams is required. Proven ability to gather data efficiently utilizing digital devices, including tablets and smartphones. Operational experience with machinery relevant to the role is essential. Capable of accurately identifying various fish species through visual assessment and biological knowledge. Exceptional proficiency in both written and spoken English is a fundamental requirement; familiarity with one or more local Zambian languages is considered an asset. Key Competencies Required Core competencies Accountability: Collaborates closely with colleagues, demonstrating accountability for both personal and collective achievements while actively seeking constructive feedback to enhance performance. Consistently meets established deadlines and adheres rigorously to ethical standards. Collaboration and Communication: The incumbent effectively communicates information in a clear and concise manner, ensuring the recipient fully comprehends the message. Additionally, they actively participate in discussions, providing pertinent information to facilitate well-informed decision-making. Respect and Inclusion: Recognizes and values the contributions of all team members while fostering strong collaboration with colleagues from diverse backgrounds. Exhibits adaptability and a receptive mindset, actively promoting inclusive strategies that ensure complete engagement. Results and Impact Orientation: A diligent professional who proactively recognizes challenges and employs robust problem-solving strategies to address them effectively. Consistently delivers on commitments while upholding the organization’s mission and core values. Demonstrates adaptability by embracing new processes, integrating emerging technologies, and adjusting to evolving requirements to sustain operational excellence. Functional and Technical Competencies Analytical, Critical, and Systems Thinking: The ideal candidate will demonstrate proficiency in evaluating complex information, identifying key issues, and developing innovative solutions through structured analysis. They must possess the ability to assess problems from multiple perspectives, anticipate potential outcomes, and integrate diverse inputs to optimize decision-making processes. Additionally, the role requires a keen eye for detail, the capacity to challenge assumptions, and the skill to adapt methodologies based on evolving data and circumstances. Conducts a comprehensive examination of data derived from various channels to detect patterns, formulate insights, and deliver strategic, results-oriented recommendations. Scientific Ethics and Integrity: Ensures strict adherence to ethical standards throughout data collection, analysis, and reporting processes, proactively discloses any potential conflicts of interest, and maintains rigorous compliance with open data principles to uphold transparency and accessibility. Equipment Operations: Proactively identifies and addresses potential equipment hazards while implementing comprehensive preventative maintenance measures to extend equipment lifespan. Additionally, ensures strict adherence to established safety procedures and guidelines across the team. Planning and Organizing: Demonstrates exceptional capability in organizing and executing multiple priorities and deadlines autonomously, leveraging time management tools to ensure adherence to schedules. Consistently evaluates and reallocates resources as necessary to effectively balance competing responsibilities while maintaining high productivity levels. Problem Solving: Analyzes data to determine underlying issues, partners with team members to collect pertinent information, and evaluates key elements to develop viable solutions. Benefits This is a Nationally Recruited Staff (NRS) The role at World Fish provides a highly competitive compensation package, featuring an array of comprehensive benefits such as insurance coverage for employees and eligible dependents, employer contributions to a provident fund, paid leave, and additional perks. The initial contract term spans three years, with the potential for renewal contingent upon funding availability and individual performance.

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