JOB DESCRIPTION
The Research Officer – Europe will assist in implementing TRAFFIC’s global work plan in Europe.
CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES
• Support the implementation of TRAFFIC’s activities in Europe, contributing to the organisation’s global programme in collaboration with other TRAFFIC offices and external partners.
• Conduct research on a wide range of wildlife trade and conservation topics, including data collection and analysis. Assist in the design and implementation of research projects focused on wildlife trade in Europe.
• Provide technical and administrative support to TRAFFIC’s programmes in Europe, including contributing to the development of policy recommendations and strategic recommendations.
• Facilitate internal and external communications related to TRAFFIC’s Europe programme activities. Represent TRAFFIC at relevant international meetings, workshops, and stakeholder engagements as required.
• Assists TRAFFIC staff in Europe with programme development and implementation, including fundraising, project coordination, and stakeholder engagement.
SPECIFIC DUTIES
• Support the implementation of activities under TRAFFIC’s Service Contract with the European Commission to support the implementation and development of the EU Wildlife Trade Policy and Regulations.
• Assist in the collection, compilation, and analysis of information related to the enforcement and implementation of the EU Wildlife Trade Regulations.
• Analyse wildlife trade data and produce scientific and technical reports, briefing documents, and recommendations for a range of target audiences including the CITES Secretariat, the European Commission, government agencies and NGOs.
• Provide technical assistance, research support, scientific information, and data analysis to TRAFFIC staff in Europe, other TRAFFIC offices, and relevant national and international partners and agencies.
• Contribute to the delivery of TRAFFIC projects in Europe, with a focus on threatened species, wildlife markets, and the implementation of EU Wildlife Trade Regulations.
• Respond to general wildlife trade and policy enquiries received by TRAFFIC in Europe, ensuring timely and accurate communication.
• Represent TRAFFIC at relevant international meetings, conferences, and workshops, and provide summaries or reports of key outcomes and implications.
• Liaise and coordinate with key stakeholders, such as the European Commission, the CITES Secretariat, governmental bodies, intergovernmental agencies, and NGOs.
• Support internal monitoring and reporting of TRAFFIC’s programme implementation in Europe, including contributions to donor reporting and evaluation processes..
• Assist in fundraising activities, including the development of concept notes and funding proposals to support TRAFFIC’s work in Europe. REQUIREMENTS • Education and Qualifications
University qualification in biology, zoology, environmental sciences, environmental policy or law, or a closely related field, ideally with a focus on wildlife trade or conservation.
•Postgraduate qualifications in a relevant subject are an advantage.
Professional Experience
•Demonstrated experience in international wildlife conservation preferably with government or an international Non-governmental Organisation (NGO) / Inter-governmental Organisation (IGO);
•Experience working within or in collaboration with EU institutions or international conservation frameworks is highly desirable.
•Experience conducting research and investigations on wildlife trade issues.
•Experience or demonstrated knowledge of broader wildlife trade issues, including fisheries and illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, exotic pet trade, timber trade, is highly desirable.
Knowledge and Expertise
•Strong understanding of international nature conservation laws and agreements, including the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES);
•Strong understanding of the EU Wildlife Trade Regulations and relevant national legislation across European countries;
•Sound knowledge of the structure and functioning of the European Union and the European Commission, particularly its environmental and development policies.
Analytical and Research Skills
•Proven research and analytical skills, including data collection, interpretation, critical review and synthesis of scientific research data, policy and legal information;
•Proficiency in using statistical software (e.g., R) and data analysis tools.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
•Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, including the ability to produce clear, well-structured reports, policy briefs, and presentations for a range of audiences;
•Fluency in other European languages (particularly French, German, Spanish) or languages of neighbouring countries is considered a strong asset;
•Strong interpersonal and cross-cultural communication skills with the ability to work effectively in a small, diverse team and engage professionally with external stakeholders.
Organisation and Work Ethic
•Proficient organisation skills, with attention to detail and accuracy;
•Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously in a fast-paced environment;
•Self-motivated with the ability to prioritise workload and work independently when required;
•Demonstrated commitment to the mission and values of TRAFFIC;
Other Requirements
•Willingness and ability to travel internationally as needed;
•Must be eligible to work in the European Union or the United Kingdom (depending on the location of the role).