Job Description

Lincoln Park Zoo inspires communities to create environments where wildlife will thrive in our urbanizing world. The zoo is a leader in local and global conservation, animal care and welfare, learning, and science. A historic Chicago landmark founded in 1868, the not-for-profit Lincoln Park Zoo, is a privately-managed, member-supported organization and is free and open 365 days a year. Visit us at lpzoo.org.
The Lester E. Fisher Center for the Study and Conservation of Apes is located within the Regenstein Center for African Apes, a world-class facility that features dynamic habitats for chimpanzees and gorillas. The center\xe2\x80\x99s mission is to conduct multidisciplinary research that advances the knowledge of ape behavior and biology, improve the care and management of apes in human care, and conserve and protect wild chimpanzee and gorilla populations. The successful appointee will report directly to the Vice President of Conservation and Science. They will administer and coordinate the center\xe2\x80\x99s research projects and programs by planning, developing, and organizing independent research with non-human primates, with a specific focus on apes. Additionally, they will work directly with our zoo scientist who co-directs the Goualougo Triangle Ape Project located in the Republic of Congo, collaborate with other primate researchers, seek opportunities for both internal and external collaborations, and maintain current relationships with conservation partners and donors. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Serves as the senior administrator for the center by establishing, implementing and overseeing the programmatic vision for the center, including budget oversight and staff supervision.
• Promotes the center\xe2\x80\x99s activities within and outside the zoo and assists the zoo\xe2\x80\x99s development department in obtaining support for the center\xe2\x80\x99s initiatives.
• Designs, initiates, conducts, and manages research and conservation projects in own areas of interest and expertise.
  • Initiates and coordinates collaboration within the Conservation and Science department and among zoo staff.
  • Approves and oversees the center\xe2\x80\x99s collaboration and projects with curatorial, veterinary and animal care staff.
  • Supervises and provides support/leadership/mentorship to center\xe2\x80\x99s staff to ensure staff have supervision and opportunities for professional growth.
  
  

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Tasks include identifying and establishing linkages to ape research projects and conservation programs outside the zoo and maintaining existing programs and collaborations.
• Tasks also include dissemination of scientific research results through publication in peer reviewed journals or presentations at meetings; liaison to local, regional, national, and international organizations involved with primate research or conservation; participation in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) conservation programs and committees.
• Advances the zoo\xe2\x80\x99s mission by promoting, managing, coordinating and expanding the programs and activities of the center.
• Actively works to promote and enhance a culture of collaboration through trust and accountability.
• Represents the center\xe2\x80\x99s work and the zoo to external colleagues, collaborators, media, donors, etc.
• Other duties as assigned by immediate supervisor.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Applied knowledge of principals of research methods, animal behavioral observations, data collection and analysis.
• Ability to design studies, analyze, interpret and communicate results
• Demonstrated knowledge and expertise in one or more areas of non-human primate biology.
• Strong interpersonal, communication and conflict resolutions skills with the ability to create and maintain a productive work culture.
• Ability to be flexible, adaptable and act with professionalism and integrity.
• Exceptional written and verbal skills including ability to engage varying audiences in the work of the center

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS Ph.D. with demonstrated knowledge and expertise in one or more areas of non-human primate biology.
EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS Significant experience with, and publications from, ecology, behavior, or conservation of primates, particularly apes. Experience with field conservation efforts in Africa preferred. Excellent speaking and writing skills are essential.
Note: A comparable combination of education, experience or training that would provide the level of knowledge, skills and ability required may qualify individual.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to sit for long periods of time Ability to work in open office environment Ability to traverse zoo grounds

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Willingness and availability for travel within and outside the United States, particularly to Africa and Asia. Available to work all necessary hours, including weekends, holidays, special events and all shifts
This is an on-site position with a Monday- Friday schedule. Ability for hybrid work (work from home) schedule may be discussed in consultation with manager
Annual TB test required Must provide proof of Covid-19 vaccination
Lincoln Park Zoo is committed to an environment that is inclusive and welcoming. We celebrate the diverse qualities, perspectives, values and experiences of all people. For Wildlife. For All.
Salary dependent upon experience, range $90K-100K/year