Conservation Officer (Social Science Researcher)

Calling all dog lovers, aspiring social scientists, bird fanatics, or beach goers! Join us in conducting social science aimed at reducing disturbance to beach-nesting birds through human behaviour change informed signage to encourage voluntary lead use by dog walkers on the Norfolk Coast. You will contribute to novel research that understands human behaviours to make coastal environments a place that humans, dogs, and birds can comfortably use. Your help will protect incredible beach-nesting bird species such as Little Terns, Ringed Plovers, and Oystercatchers. This exciting opportunity will allow you to develop your field work skills in the social sciences. .

Tasks you will assist with:

• Building observational protocol
• Field work setup
• Traveling to field work sites
• Following a specific observational protocol to collect data
• Conducting interviews with dog walkers (optional)
• If necessary, communicating with public participants
• Collecting and managing observational field data

Desirable interests, skills, and experience:

• Interest in nature conservation
• Comfortable in outdoor environments
• An understanding of, or interest in, human behaviour change
• Knowledge of scientific methodologies
• Accurate data recording and data management skills (e.g. in Excel)

Field sites: Snettisham beach and Winterton-on-Sea. Vehicle required or reside within close proximity. The RSPB will reimburse you for travel expenses.

Commitment: April 2023-September 2023. Flexible within this timeframe. Ideally minimum 8 hours per week.

If you’re interested in this exciting new project, get in touch to chat about the role. Please contact Jessie Fitts at Jessie.Fitts@RSPB.org.uk