The Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW) at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is seeking to hire a Post-Doctoral Scientist. This is a 2.5 year, full-time position, funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) National Leadership Grants program. 

Position summary: The successful candidate will be instrumental in achieving the goals of an IMLS grant-funded project which aims to support the conservation and improve management of bear species in North American zoological institutions. Building on over a decade of polar bear research, CREW scientists are expanding their efforts to other bear species. The project aims to increase our understanding of the reproductive physiology of Ursidae, preserve genetic material, and enhance the population of zoo bears, with the ultimate goal of informing the conservation and management of wild populations of bears. Project activities include gamete collection and banking, reproductive evaluations, hormone analyses, reproductive/wellness biomarker validation and characterization, extracellular vesicle analysis, and evaluating other non- and minimally-invasive monitoring techniques. There is flexibility in project design and the selected candidate will be encouraged to generate his/her own ideas that fall in alignment with project goals. S/he will work with CREW senior scientists, will conduct basic and applied research, and will provide technical skills necessary to carry out the mission of CREW: Saving Species with Science®.

Qualifications: 

• The applicant should possess a PhD or a DVM with MS in biological or animal sciences;
• The ideal candidate will have an expert understanding of mammalian reproductive physiology and should have prior research experience utilizing techniques such as ultrasonography and semen collection/ cryopreservation in a zoo, laboratory, or agricultural setting;
• Will demonstrate the ability to plan, execute, and lead an intensive domestic animal trial conducted off-site and must be willing to live off-site for several months to conduct frequent sampling and data collection (AirBnB housing will be provided);
• Be able to work autonomously, with independent judgment, as well as in a collaborative team environment;
• Should have at least three years of laboratory experience, including competency in several molecular biology techniques;
• Will have a publication record that illustrates his/her ability to conduct and complete research;
• Must possess the soft skills required to work and communicate effectively with a variety of people, including CREW scientists, collaborators at other institutions/facilities, animal care staff, volunteers, students/ interns, donors, and the general public;
• Should enjoy training and mentoring the next generation of scientists;
• Must be willing to travel up to 6 times/year for procedures and conferences and should have a flexible schedule to attend special events outside of normal working hours;
• Must have a visa to work legally in the U.S. and must have a U.S. driver’s license, and;
• Selected applicant must maintain a current Covid-vaccination status.

The successful candidate will be considered an essential part of the CREW team and, as such, will be expected to attend weekly staff meetings, participate in CREW fund-raising events, perform scientific demonstrations for the public at special events, speak with visitors/students about their work, and give tours of the CREW facility.

We strive to be an organization that is diverse and reflects the fullness of society. With a strongly held value for an organizational culture characterized by inclusion and belonging, we are committed to equity in all we do. We are especially interested in candidates who can contribute to our organization’s diversity and who want to walk alongside us in our commitment to inclusion and equity. We are a Queen City Certified/Ellequate Leader in Workplace Equity.

About CREW: Located on the grounds of the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, CREW is one of just a few zoological facilities entirely dedicated to supporting conservation research and houses a team of full-time scientists. CREW plays a critical role in broadening the knowledge and understanding of animal and plant biology, increasing and preserving global biodiversity, connecting managed and wild populations and conserving imperiled species in their native environment. Channeling the strengths and expertise of the scientific staff, CREW takes a focused approach to wildlife conservation by identifying Signature projects where we believe our impact can be significant, including: 1) rhinos, 2) exceptional plants, 3) imperiled cats, and 4) polar bears. Each Signature project is a well-rounded program with ongoing activities in each of five strategic areas considered essential to conserving these species: research, education, in situ protection, propagation, and visitor involvement.  

Working Conditions: While performing the duties of the job, the incumbent is regularly required to stand, walk, kneel, and utilize manual dexterity to use equipment, computer mouse and keyboard. The incumbent may be required to handle and restrain small mammals and may be subject to bites or scratches.  The incumbent will be exposed to outside weather conditions and must be able to lift/move/carry up to 50 pounds without assistance. Employment is contingent upon passing a post-offer, pre-employment drug and nicotine screen and background check.

Compensation & Benefits: The annual salary is $50,000 with a comprehensive benefits package including affordable medical, dental & vision coverage, 401(k) plan with company match, flexible spending accounts, generous paid time off (vacation, holiday and sick leave), company-paid disability & life insurance, park discounts and free passes.

To apply for this position: Qualified candidates may apply via our online application on our website at: http://cincinnatizoo.org/about-us/job-opportunities/. Resume/CV and cover letter including contact information for three references should be uploaded in your online application. By applying, the applicant acknowledges that s/he is willing to relocate to Cincinnati, if applicable.

Timeline: Closing date for applications is October 15, 2023; however; if an appropriate candidate is not identified, the position will remain posted until filled. Virtual and/or in-person interviews will be conducted during the last quarter of 2023. This position may begin as early as January 2024 and will continue through August 2026.

The world famous Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden was rated the #1 attraction in Cincinnati and one of the top five zoos in the nation by Zagat Survey. It has also been recognized by Child Magazine as one of "The 10 Best Zoos for Kids." Over 1.2 million people visit the Zoo's award-winning exhibits, and more than 500 animal and 3,000 plant species annually. The Zoo is an accredited member of the American Zoo & Aquarium Association (AZA), is internationally known for its success in the protection and propagation of endangered animals and plants, and engages in research and conservation projects worldwide.