DOSI is pleased to share a new opportunity for an Early Career Ocean Professional (ECOP) to contribute to an important project supporting the implementation of the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction.About the roleWe are seeking a Researcher for the evaluation of ecological indicative criteria related to Area-Based Management in areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ).This role will support a collaborative project co-led by the International Union for Conservation of Nature World Commission on Protected Areas High Seas Specialist Group and DOSI’s Biodiversity Conservation Task Force.The project will develop a Reading and Interpretation Guide to support the consistent and scientifically robust application of the 22 ecological criteria outlined in Annex I of the BBNJ Agreement. These criteria are central to identifying areas in need of protection and underpin the development of Area-Based Management Tools (ABMTs), including marine protected areas in the high seas.
The successful candidate will:
- Assess the feasibility and application of the BBNJ ecological criteria.
- Contribute to the design and delivery of expert and stakeholder workshops.
- Co-author an International Union for Conservation of Nature technical report.
- Support scientific publications arising from the work.
- Help translate findings into policy-relevant outputs, including briefs and presentations.
This is a unique opportunity to work at the science–policy interface, supporting global ocean governance at a pivotal moment for the deep ocean.
Location: Remote
Salary: $40,000 USD
Time commitment: 50–100% (negotiable)
Duration: Up to May 2027
Start date: As soon as possible
Who should apply
We encourage applications from ECOPs (≤10 years’ experience) with:
- A PhD (or equivalent experience) in a relevant field.
- Experience in marine science, policy, spatial analysis, or environmental science• Interest in deep-sea ecosystems and ocean governance.
- A strong ability to translate science into policy-relevant outputs.
- Experience with high seas conservation or the BBNJ process will be an asset.
How to apply
Please submit:
- CV
- A one-page statement outlining your suitability
- Contact details for three references
Deadline: 31 May 2026
Send applications to: metaxas@dal.ca
Read full role profile and learn more here.