Research Assistant

Are you interested in contributing to research with real‑world impact on animal welfare and conservation?

We are seeking a Research Assistant (Grade
6) to join a BBSRC‑funded research project developing innovative, automated approaches to monitoring animal behaviour and welfare in zoological collections.

• Work in close collaboration with Chester Zoo to conduct proof‑of‑concept research, trialling RFID‑based monitoring systems to study the behaviour of tropical birds in large, complex enclosures.
• Set up and test monitoring equipment, collect and analyse behavioural data, support animal welfare monitoring, and contribute to research outputs, including reports and publications.
• Spend significant time at the Leahurst Campus (Wirral Peninsula) and at Chester Zoo as part of a collaborative team.

• Hold a relevant degree and have research experience in animal behaviour.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Experience with automated, sensor‑based, or RFID technologies is advantageous.

The post is full‑time and fixed‑term, available for up to 6 months.

Preferred start date:
June 2026.

We are committed to enhancing a workforce as diverse as our community and particularly encourage applicants who are of minoritised genders and ethnic backgrounds, living with a disability, and/or are members of the LGBTQIA+ community.