About Us

The Cape Eleuthera Institute (CEI) is the hub for research and innovation at The Island School in South Eleuthera, The Bahamas. As part of an organization devoted to research, education, and conservation, CEI seeks to create a connection between people and the environment as a path toward a more sustainable future. We are internationally recognized for our environmental research and education programs, facilitated by outstanding access to a range of tropical habitats.

Job Summary

Our Research Faculty are the engines of innovation in the organization, leading research projects that address practical and technical challenges of sustainable development, while engaging students in meaningful work that fulfils our vision of ‘leadership effecting change’.

The Agroforestry Research Scientist is expected to lead research being conducted on a new and unique agroforestry system that is in its infancy. You are expected to work hand-in-hand with the Assistant Director and Farm Manager to develop research projects that involve students while improving our understanding of the potential for food production and environmental conservation with the system. You will take initiative, be well-organised and resilient, with a capacity to independently generate novel research questions and build support for your work. You should be comfortable working in challenging field conditions to contribute to the day-to-day installation and management of the system alongside the farm team, and have a passion for sustainable agriculture, plant ecology, agroforestry, environmental conservation, food systems, and teaching students of all ages. You must be willing to stretch beyond a traditional job description as you live and work closely with other programs at The Island School, as well as the local community.

Research Scientists work in a team environment with other research and technician staff at CEI and report to the Assistant Director. You should be excited about working at a non-traditional academic institution that believes in integrating education of every level into applied research.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of educational programming in specialist discipline (agroforestry), including Island School semester research classes
• Lead an independent research program in specialist discipline (agroforestry), including fundraising and developing new collaborations
• Oversee equipment maintenance, purchasing, and budget for assigned projects
• Write and publish research papers and technical reports as well as other forms of public dissemination of your work including preparing social media content
• Assist with the recruitment, management and mentoring of junior staff and interns
• Provide logistical support for visiting scientists and graduate students
• Represent the organisation at national and international events

Other Duties

Staff with additional specialist skills that may benefit other parts of the organization will be expected to assist activities in these areas and compensated accordingly, for example:

• Dive professionals (PADI Divemaster/Instructor or equivalent; Freediver Instructor)
• Certified boating, sailing or kayaking instructors
• Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) or Wilderness Medicine specialists
• Certified school teachers

Additional duties will be tailored to your qualifications/experience and accounted for in your compensation package, based on an assessment by your manager.

Please note that this job description does not contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that may be required of the employee for this job. Duties and  responsibilities may change at any time, with the needs of the organization.

Skills and Qualifications

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

• Education – Master’s degree (or higher) in agriculture, environmental science, terrestrial ecology, or a related field
• Experience – Prior teaching experience, preferably across different age groups
• Communication Skills – Confident in public speaking and verbal presentation of work. Can adapt communication style to different educational audiences. Proficient in scientific and grant writing.
• Analytical Skills – Expertise in experimental design, data analysis and curation
• Field work- ability to conduct physically challenging work (for either research or system installation / maintenance work) in the sub-tropics
• Adaptability – Able to survive and thrive in a small and tight-knit community located in a remote part of The Bahamas.
• Commitment to Organizational Mission – this position requires commitment to the wider mission and values of The Island School.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary commensurate with experience
• Accommodation and utilities, with on-campus meals in our dining hall 
• Comprehensive medical insurance and dental reimbursement up to $300
• Life insurance
• 26 days of paid leave: 10 vacation days, 11 national holidays and 5 sick days
• Eligibility for matching retirement plan after two years of service
• Professional development opportunities

Schedule

This is a full-time position with annual review.  The Cape Eleuthera Island School and its related divisions operate year round and working hours vary depending on needs but are typically Monday-Friday (40 hours/week), however, evening and weekend work will be required.  Special events will require periods of time outside of normal working hours when staff must be on site for extended periods.  The successful candidate should expect, and desire to work a variable and mission driven schedule.

Application

1. Letter of application that states career interests, why you would like to work for the Cape Eleuthera Institute and your relevant experience and qualifications for the position.
2. Current curriculum vitae.
3. Contact information for three references (to include name, address, telephone number and email address) familiar with the applicant's work.

Apply to https://ceis.bamboohr.com/careers and upload all documents (PDF format) noted in the job description (typically Resume/CV, Cover letter, References, relevant certifications etc).  We are collecting applications until the position is filled.  We are a Bahamian equal opportunity employer.