Marine Biologist

Job Description

Organization: Nature Environment and Wildlife Society (NEWS) Location: Kolkata, India (Frequent travel to Sundarbans and coastal project sites) About NEWS: Nature Environment and Wildlife Society (NEWS) is a leading conservation NGO dedicated to the protection of wildlife, natural ecosystems, and sustainable livelihoods. Based in Kolkata, NEWS works at the intersection of biodiversity conservation, climate action, and community engagement, making a meaningful impact across India, with a strong focus on the Sundarbans and other mangrove ecosystems. J ob Overview: The Marine Biologist will play a key role in research, conservation, and sustainable livelihood projects related to marine and coastal biodiversity, particularly in the Sundarbans region. This role is closely aligned with the SAIME Project Mainstreaming Sustainable Aquaculture in Mangrove Ecosystems (SAIME) Sundarbans, which integrates sustainable aquaculture practices with mangrove conservation to enhance ecological and socio-economic resilience. The position involves scientific research, stakeholder collaboration, financial management, and compliance to support the organization s marine ecosytem conservation initiatives harnessing the scope of blue economy. Key Responsibilities: Conduct ecological assessments to evaluate the impact of sustainable aquaculture practices within mangrove ecosystems ensuring costal livelihood. Develop and implement monitoring frameworks to assess the environmental and socio-economic outcomes of the SAIME project. Work with local communities and fish farmers to integrate sustainable aquaculture techniques that support biodiversity conservation. Promote best practices for aquaculture that enhance mangrove health and mitigate ecological degradation. Collaborate with research institutions and universities to generate scientific evidence supporting the SAIME initiative. Document and disseminate case studies and success stories related to sustainable aquaculture and mangrove conservation Manage project budgets in tandem with the project head, project manager, NEWS accounts department, funding agency and other relevant stakeholders. Monitor project expenditures, ensuring alignment with budgetary allocations and donor guidelines. Prepare comprehensive financial reports, forecasts, and statements of accounts for donors and other concerned . Coordinate with external auditors for annual financial audits and implement audit recommendations. Research and Data Management: Conduct biodiversity assessments, including species inventories, habitat mapping, and ecological surveys, to inform conservation planning and decision-making related to the SAIME project. Manage biodiversity data and maintain comprehensive databases of species records, habitat characteristics, and monitoring results. Facilitate the implementation of scientific research and data collection activities related to this action-research-based project. Ensure that project activities align with scientific standards and best practices. Collaboration and Networking: Establish partnerships and collaborations with academic institutions, research organizations, and conservation networks to leverage expertise and resources for biodiversity conservation and livelihoods through aquaculture. Represent the project at relevant forums, conferences, and meetings to share knowledge, exchange best practices, and build alliances with other conservation stakeholders. Administration and Operations: Supervise administrative staff to ensure the efficient operation of office facilities and equipment. Develop and implement administrative policies and procedures to support project activities. Manage logistics for project events, workshops, and meetings, including venue booking and travel arrangements. Maintain accurate records and documentation related to project activities and agreements. Compliance and Risk Management: Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and donor requirements. Identify financial and operational risks and develop mitigation strategies. Provide guidance and support to project staff on compliance issues and risk management practices. Scientific Coordination: Collaborate with scientific experts to integrate scientific principles into project planning and execution. Facilitate the implementation of complementary scientific research related to marine biodiversity conservation. Reporting and Communication: Prepare regular financial, administrative, and scientific reports for stakeholders. Liaise with project partners, government agencies, and donors to provide updates on project activities. Communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders to address inquiries and feedback. Qualifications and Skills: Master s or PhD in Marine Biology, Environmental Science, Aquatic Ecology, Fisheries Science, or a related field. Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in marine ecosytem conservation, biodiversity research, or fisheries management, preferably within the Sundarbans. Strong background in ecological surveys, data analysis, and scientific reporting Experience in financial management, budgeting, and donor reporting. Strong networking and stakeholder engagement skills. Understanding of the ecological and socio-economic challenges of the Sundarbans and coastal communities. Ability to work in remote and dynamic environments. Proficiency in MS Office, GIS tools, and statistical software for ecological data analysis Fluency in Bengali and English B enefits: Gross Salary: 45,000 50,000 per month (based on experience qualifications). Provident Fund (PF): Applicable after the probationary period. Medical Insurance (Mediclaim): Eligible after one year of service. Contract Period: Initially one year, extendable based on performance. A pplication Process: I nterested candidates must submit: 1. Updated Resume detailing qualifications experience. 2. Cover Letter explaining suitability for the role. 3. Two Professional References.