Field Scientist

Panthera Corporation

Panthera is the only organization in the world that is devoted exclusively to the conservation of the world’s 40 wild cat species and their ecosystems. Utilizing the expertise of the world’s premier cat biologists, Panthera develops and implements global strategies for the most imperiled species. Representing the most comprehensive effort of its kind, Panthera partners with local and international NGOs, scientific institutions, local communities, governments around the globe, and citizens who want to help ensure a future for wild cats. Panthera Corporation consists of Panthera Corporation- USA and several foreign legal entities and foreign branch offices.  For more on Panthera, visit www.panthera.org. 

Panthera registered in Tanzania as an international NGO in 2025. The organisation’s activities focus on the western Tanzania conservation landscape, where we will be providing financial, logistical, and technical protection support to local partners, and supporting wildlife monitoring activities.

Position title: Field Scientist

Reports to: Regional Hub Director: Southern and East Africa

Panthera Division: Southern and East Africa

Geographic Scope: Tanzania

Duty Station: Tabora, Tanzania

Overview

The Field Scientist will support the planning and lead the execution of wildlife and ecological monitoring activities supported by Panthera in western Tanzania. The role will involve a combination of field-based data collection work (primarily camera trap and spoor surveys), data management, and logistical coordination. Additional responsibilities include supporting reporting, liaising with partners, and contributing to scientific outputs. This position offers opportunities for professional growth in applied ecology and conservation, including through training workshops and field-based mentorship.

The role is based in Tabora, with frequent and extended travel to Protected Areas in western Tanzania. Occasional travel to Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Morogoro, and internationally may be required.

 Responsibilities & duties

• Plan, implement, and manage camera trap surveys, spoor surveys, and other wildlife monitoring activities, in collaboration with the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA) and other relevant partners. This includes survey design, logistics, equipment preparation, and inventory management.
• Manage the data collected in the field, both locally and through Panthera’s Integrated Data System (IDS), as well as through SMART and African Carnivore Wildbook.
• Analyse data from camera traps and other sources (following training by senior Panthera staff).
• Prepare reports and presentations summarising survey results and analytical findings.
• Coordinate with partners and stakeholders during field activities, including by providing training to partners where appropriate.
• Support relationship-building with key stakeholders through regular communication and participation in meetings.
• Produce meeting minutes and summary reports.
• Manage and report on field expenses and cash advances.
• Assist with the upkeep of the Panthera monitoring vehicle and procurement of field equipment and materials.
• Contribute to the drafting of scientific articles and other publications.
• Assist senior Panthera staff with other tasks as needed.

Qualifications, experience and personality traits

• Bachelor’s degree in wildlife management, conservation biology, ecology, natural resources management, or a related field (required); postgraduate qualification (preferred).
• Demonstrated experience coordinating research or conservation field projects.
• Extensive fieldwork experience in remote Protected Areas in Tanzania, with proven logistical and planning skills.
• Practical experience using camera traps and other wildlife monitoring tools (preferred).
• Willingness and ability to work in challenging, remote environments for extended periods, with limited or no phone/internet access.
• Experience managing budgets and reporting expenditures.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Basic GIS and database management skills.
• Familiarity with R and relevant analytical packages, particularly capture-recapture and occupancy modelling (preferred).
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with data collection, literature reviews, and scientific writing.
• Valid driver’s license and experience operating 4WD vehicles in challenging terrain.
• Commitment to field safety and adherence to protocols.
• Tanzanian national with proficiency in both Kiswahili and English (spoken and written)