SAPRI Sealer Overwinterer x3

About the role

The Egagasini Node of the South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON), part of the National Research Foundation, is recruiting three overwinterers to collect field data on three seal species for conservation and academic use within the South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI). The work takes place at a sub-Antarctic research base on Marion Island from April 2027 to May 2028, with no option to return to South Africa before then. Conditions are cold, wet and windy 95% of the time, and applicants must be able to work and live with small groups.

Key responsibilities

• Counting, handling, sampling and mark-recapture of seals
• Deploying and removing satellite devices, weighing, sampling, measuring and making observations
• Remote field work without direct supervision, about 65% of the time, with 5,000 to 7,500 km of walking in gumboots
• Office and laboratory work for sample management and data analysis
• Assisting with dedicated killer whale observations
• Data capturing, analysis and reporting
• Managing equipment (asset management) and teamwork at the base

Required profile

• A relevant BSc degree in Natural and Biological Science or equivalent; a BSc (Hons) or higher is advantageous
• At least one year of work experience on marine mammals
• Experience in field surveys, research administration, data collection and management, mammal identification and handling, and report writing
• Evidence of ability to work independently and in difficult field conditions, and high fitness to carry heavy loads and walk long distances in gumboots
• Ability to work long hours, individually and in teams, with good communication and conflict-resolution skills

Required skills

• Well versed in MS Office or related software
• Advantageous: image manipulation software such as Lightroom or Photoshop
• Computer and data skills, meticulous data recording

Shortlisted candidates face screening and security vetting, and appointment is subject to a medical, physical and psychological examination at no cost to the applicant. Applications close on 11 November 2026.