This role involves managing the integration of behavioral science into conservation efforts within Conservation International’s (CI) Africa Field Management Unit (FMU). The Manager will act as the project’s focal point, ensuring strong alignment between the Moore Center for Science, CI’s Africa programs, and external implementing partners. Key responsibilities include leading the development of resources like the Implementer’s Guidebook, coordinating complex field research logistics, providing technical expertise in mixed methods studies (particularly wellbeing and behavioral economics), and strengthening CI’s capacity for people-centered conservation solutions.
Responsibilities
Leadership and Coordination
- Serve as the project’s focal point for CI’s Africa Field Management Unit (FMU), ensuring alignment between the Moore Center for Science, CI’s Africa programs, and implementing partners.
- Lead the development of an Implementer’s Guidebook, synthesizing behavioral science evidence and practitioner experience into clear, actionable modules for community-based implementers.
- Serve as the primary liaison across multiple stakeholders (internal science team, implementer partners, national and local authorities) to ensure alignment, co-creation, and timely delivery of deliverables.
- Partner with academics and field practitioners to co-design field-based learning experiences and guidebooks.
- Lead field-based data collection and stakeholder engagement in rural community settings.
- Take a leadership role in people-centered conservation solutions.
- Supervise and mentor one (or more) research staff/assistant(s); set performance objectives, manage workflow, and support professional growth.
- Maintain proactive communication with the Senior Scientist and Project Manager, ensuring updates, risks, and opportunities are shared promptly.
Research & Implementation Support
- Manage and execute field research logistics, including timelines, partner coordination, and workshops for wellbeing and behavioral studies in southern Africa.
- Contribute technically (~40% of time) to research design, field data collection, and analysis, particularly mixed methods work in wellbeing and behavioral economics.
- Ensure all fieldwork and outputs meet CI’s standards for scientific rigor, data quality, and relevance to field implementation.
- Work collaboratively with partners such as Meat Naturally, Conservation South Africa, and Peace Parks Foundation to translate research findings into implementable actions.
Knowledge Translation & Capacity Building
- Ensure that behavioral science components are integrated into broader organizational priorities and that knowledge generated is actionable for implementers.
- Coordinate internal learning exchanges, briefings, and synthesis sessions with Africa FMU, fostering stronger linkages between science and implementation.
- Contribute to technical workshops and cross-team learning events that strengthen CI’s role as a thought leader in people-centered conservation and Natural Climate Solutions.
Working Conditions
- Work is performed in one of the CI US offices or in the CI Africa FMU.
- This position requires regular travel to southern Africa and leading workshops and fieldwork in rural communities.
- Some travel - up to 25% may be required.
- Flexibility in the work schedule may be necessary in order to accommodate time differences between HQ and the region.
- This position follows a hybrid work structure, working some days from the office and some days remotely. Guidance will be shared during the interview process.
- This role will be a fixed-term assignment, anticipated to begin in January 2026 and end in December 2027.
Qualifications (Required)
- Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, conservation science, social science, or a related field, with 4 to 6 years of experience in scientific research or managing conservation or research initiatives.
- Ability to translate behavioral and social science evidence into actionable guidance and decision-support tools.
- Strong written, verbal, and visual communication skills, with the ability to tailor complex ideas for diverse audiences.
- Ability to manage multi-partner research or conservation projects, coordinating timelines and deliverables across dispersed teams.
- Experience coordinating or conducting fieldwork in rural or community-based contexts, with sensitivity to cultural and ethical considerations.
- Demonstrated initiative, creativity, and sound judgment; able to work independently while maintaining strong communication with colleagues and partners.
