Science Fellow - Animal Behavior

Be part of the dynamic and innovative Science Operations team where we are part of a broader mission to Lead Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, Care for animals and the environment, Connect people to nature, and Conserve our natural resources.

As the Science Fellow – Animal Behavior Project Hire, you will assist the Science Operations team at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® and Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Lodge with operational and strategic projects related to animal behavior and welfare. You will collaborate with stakeholders within the Science Operations team and animal husbandry teams to complete these science-based projects.

This one year project hire role will be based at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and will report to the Science Operations Manager.

Responsibilities:

• Assist in the design, implementation, and completion of scientific projects focused on understanding animal behavior and cognition in the context of applied animal care and welfare. Project assignments will be based on applicant experience and team needs but may include:
  • Validate the use of a proprietary machine learning program to study the social behavior and space use patterns of an all-male group of Nile crocodiles.
  • Evaluate the effect of an experience-based enrichment program on the activity and space use of Sumatran tigers.
  • Study foraging and anticipatory behavior in Asian small-clawed otters as part of a large, multi-institutional study.
  • Evaluate the behavior of ungulates under different management styles as part of a large, multi-institutional study.
• Support the continuation of ongoing operational projects, which may include:
  • Monitor the activity budget, social behavior, and space use patterns of an all-male western lowland gorilla group.
  • Monitor the social behavior and space use patterns of an all-male Nile crocodile group.
  • Monitor the activity budget, and enrichment utilization of nocturnal animals living at Conservation Station.
  • Evaluate the visibility of animals to guests throughout the entirety of Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
• Contribute to building scientific capacity within animal program cast.
• Share team projects and stories through interactions with Disney guests.
• Contribute to the development of science focused interactive, interpretive experiences for Disney guests.
• Communicate project findings in stakeholder/team meetings and scientific/popular publications.

Required Qualifications:

• Experience working in a research capacity with an AZA zoo/aquarium, research center, laboratory or equivalent, OR in the field of conservation.
• Proven experience in studying the behavior of animals either ex- or in-situ.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented atmosphere and have strong interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to interact and interpret science- and conservation-related information with varied audiences.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Attention to detail and excellent organization abilities, with ability to initiate, coordinate, and prioritize responsibilities and follow through on tasks and projects.
• Enthusiasm for the work of zoos and aquariums in the fields of animal behavior and welfare.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of and interest in a broad array of taxa including ungulates, primates, birds, and invertebrates.
• Knowledge of topical animal behavior, cognition, care, and welfare research topics within the zoo and aquarium industry.
• Experience with managing and analyzing datasets, particularly using R software.

• History of publication in peer-reviewed journals and/or demonstration of technical and report writing for varied audiences.

• Teaching or lecturing experience.

Required Education:

• Minimum of a master’s degree in biology, psychology, anthropology or related scientific field

Additional Information

• Benefits and Perks: Disney offers a rewards package to help you live your best life! This includes health and savings benefits, educational opportunities and special extras that only Disney can provide! Learn more about our benefits and perks at https://jobs.disneycareers.com/benefits

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