Key Skills

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: Researcher & Fieldworker Marine Monitoring (Bonaire) - Freelance Assignment 24-32 hours per week Freelance Researcher & Fieldworker Marine Monitoring (Bonaire) 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. Assignment Details Client: Rotterdam Zoo / RoffaReefs Location: Bonaire 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 Expected Deliverables 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. 3. Research Outputs 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 [email protected] Interested? Are you the independent researcher who wants to contribute to innovative coral research and nature conservation from Bonaire? Please send your CV, a brief motivation letter, and an indication of your availability to Rotterdam Zoo via our website. We look forward to hearing from you.

Core Responsibilities

Conduct marine fieldwork on Bonaire to monitor fish spawning behavior and collect egg data, following the established protocol and guiding interns who assist with data collection. Validate and analyze the data, report and present findings, contribute to a scientific publication, and document protocols and project handover materials.

Requirements

Candidates should have a relevant bachelor's or master's degree and experience in marine field research, research data analysis, and statistical processing. They must be based on Bonaire, able to conduct diving activities and hold their own diving accident insurance, be registered as an independent contractor, and be available for the project duration.