Research Officer

International Union for Conservation of Nature

London, United Kingdom

TRAFFIC is the leading non-governmental organisation working globally on trade in wild animals and plants in the context of both biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.

TRAFFIC International is a charity and limited company registered in the UK. TRAFFIC’s head office, based in Cambridge UK, provides worldwide leadership, coordination, cross-regional and corporate functions. TRAFFIC’s local engagement is managed through programme offices operating under the auspices of the UK charity, with staff based in a hub office and at other strategic locations where necessary. Programme offices operate within a geographic area of responsibility focused on one or multiple countries where TRAFFIC aims to help deliver priority programme outcomes.

Candidate must be eligible to work in Belgium/the European Union or the UK. We are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.

  • 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.

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.
  • Analyses 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.

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).

Source: https://hrms.iucn.org/iresy/index.cfm?event=vac.show&vacId=11406&lang=en