Would you like to contribute to meaningful marine conservation while living and working in one of the Mediterranean's most important biodiversity hotspots?

The Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation is currently recruiting for a position within our Marine Ecology & Conservation Team:

Research Assistant – Marine Ecology & Conservation (paid position)

We are looking for a dedicated, proactive and highly motivated marine scientist to support the coordination of our Marine Ecology Team. Working from our research bases on the islands of Samos and Lipsi, successful applicants will join an international multidisciplinary team carrying out year-round scientific research and conservation action throughout the eastern Aegean Sea.

Research Assistant – Marine Ecology & ConservationThe Role and Main Responsibilities

This position is ideal for someone seeking to develop a career in applied marine conservation while gaining extensive leadership and field research experience. The role involve the following tasks: 

• Coordinate daily marine ecology fieldwork and surveys.
• Lead and mentor students and field researchers.
• Ensure high standards of scientific data collection and quality control.
• Coordinate ecological monitoring programmes.
• Contribute to habitat restoration projects, including Posidonia seagrass restoration.
• Assist with GIS analysis, data management, statistical analysis and scientific reporting.
• Contribute to scientific publications and funding proposals.
• Support the day-to-day operation of the research bases.
• Collaborate closely with the Institute's multidisciplinary research teams.

Essential Qualifications

• MSc in Marine Biology, Marine Ecology, Environmental Sciences or a related discipline.
• Previous ecological field research experience.
• Advance Open Water licence at least.
• Excellent organisational and communication skills.
• Scientific writing experience.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and within multidisciplinary teams.
• Excellent English.
• Valid driving licence.

Desirable Skills

• Experience supervising students or volunteers.
• GIS and spatial analysis.
• Rescue diving licence and Scientific diving qualification.
• Boat handling experience.
• Knowledge of Greek.

Who Should Apply?

We welcome applications from:

• Undergraduate students.
• Postgraduate students.
• Recent graduates.
• Early-career marine scientists.
• Individuals wishing to gain practical field experience before continuing their academic or professional careers.

Previous field experience is welcomed but not essential. Training is provided throughout the placement.

What We Look For

For both positions we are looking for people who are:

• Passionate about marine conservation.
• Proactive, motivated, eager to learn.
• Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Adaptable and able to live within an international research community.
• Willing to contribute both to research activities and daily life at the research bases.

What You Will Gain

• Extensive field experience in applied marine conservation.
• Training in ecological survey techniques.
• Experience working within an international multidisciplinary research team.
• Opportunities to contribute to long-term conservation projects with measurable impact.
• Experience in scientific data collection, GIS and ecological monitoring.
• Mentoring from experienced conservation scientists.
• Opportunities to contribute to scientific publications and conservation initiatives.