Aquaculture Scientist

The Nature Conservancy•Arlington, VA

20h•Remote

About The Position

The Aquaculture Scientist provides technical and scientific support and leadership for The Nature Conservancy’s Global Aquaculture Program, which operates in over a dozen countries with a vision for aquaculture as a leading nature-positive food system. This role involves assessing marine and freshwater aquaculture systems and farming species to enhance sustainability and production performance in key sectors and geographies. The scientist develops reports, publications, and decision support tools, collaborates with industry and government, and supports the development of science-based approaches to ensure aquaculture has a low environmental impact and generates environmental and social co-benefits through regenerative and restorative practices. Key responsibilities include analyzing and managing ecological, industry, and socio-economic data from various sources, including remotely sensed and field data. In collaboration with internal programs and external partners, the scientist processes data using ArcGIS, Python, or R Studio to generate insights into the suitability, performance, and sustainability of aquaculture systems and species across multiple scales. They contribute to developing decision-support tools and automating data analysis and modeling. The role also involves writing technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, funding proposals, and administering aquaculture initiatives within the Provide Food and Water Business Unit. Travel, both internationally and to remote areas, is required for site visits, data collection, partner meetings, and presenting work results.

Requirements

Master's Degree in science related field and 2 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience
Knowledge of aquatic ecosystems and/or aquaculture production systems and species
Experience leading and working with cross functional teams
Experience synthesizing, interpreting and communicating scientific information
Experience preparing reports of findings
Experience working and communicating with a wide range of people
Strong communication skills, including written and verbal communication formats

Nice To Haves

Multi-language skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated
Strong knowledge of common software applications
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
Record of peer-reviewed publications in scientific journals

Responsibilities

Collate and process data to assess the environmental impact of aquaculture and the suitability of systems and practices
Use ArcGIS or other software (e.g., Python, R Studio) to organize, analyze, and communicate data and develop decision-support tools
Develop conceptual and methodological approaches to improve the efficiency of data workflows and analyses
Prepare technical reports and peer review publications
Prepare funding proposals or grant applications and contribute to fundraising materials
Administer science projects in collaboration with other programs and external stakeholders
Communicate results and science projects in forums, workshops, and conferences
Manage grants, contracts, or requests for proposals
Travel, including internationally and to remote locations