The Department of fisheries, University of Jaffna is pleased to announce two Research Assistant positions under the BiMReN Research Grant. These positions offer an incredible opportunity to engage in hands-on research that addresses key fisheries issues in Sri Lanka’s coastal regions, with a focus on sustainability, resource management, and policy development in the Palk Bay area.

Position: Research Assistant – I (Resource Management)

Duration: The contract period is for two years from the date of appointment. The candidate must commit to the full duration of the contract. If the candidate intends to resign before the end of the contract, a three-month notice period is required.

Salary: The Research Assistant – I shall receive a fixed monthly salary of LKR 55,000 and a fixed monthly fuel and accommodation allowance of LKR 10,000. The salary will be revised every 6 months.

Job Summary:

The Research Assistant – I (Resource Management) will support critical activities related to fisheries resource assessments, ecological impact analysis, and benthic ecosystem evaluations. This is an exciting opportunity to work closely with fisheries experts and stakeholders in the Palk Bay region, collecting and analyzing data that will inform sustainable fisheries management practices.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct bi-weekly field surveys at key sites such as Point Pedro, Karainagar, Mathagal, Gurunagar, Mannar, Vankalai, and Nachchikuda, collecting data on fish catch composition, length frequencies, and ecological indicators.
• Evaluate benthic habitat conditions and assess the health of marine ecosystems.
• Facilitate scientific diving sessions to collect ecological samples, video footage, and photographic records of marine life.
• Perform data analysis and document findings related to stock status, biodiversity, and ecological impacts.
• Contribute to the preparation of technical reports, research publications, and documentation of fieldwork findings.
• Organize and coordinate workshops and focus group discussions with local fishing communities and other stakeholders to share research outcomes and gather community perspectives.
• Ensure proper handling, storage, and cataloging of ecological samples, including fish and benthic material.
• Carry out any additional tasks or duties assigned by the Principal and Co-Investigator(s) to support the successful execution of the project

Qualifications & Skills Required:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Fisheries Science, Marine Biology, Zoology, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• A minimum of 2 years of post-qualification experience in fisheries-related research or work.
• Proficiency in both written and spoken English and Tamil.
• Strong analytical skills with experience in statistical analysis, qualitative research methods, and database management.
• Proficiency in IT tools such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and email communication.
• Ability to work independently and travel extensively within the Mannar to Mullaitivu coastal regions.
• A valid motorcycle license is an advantage.

Position: Research Assistant – II (Fisheries Policy)

Duration: The contract period is for two years from the date of appointment. The candidate must commit to the full duration of the contract. If the candidate intends to resign before the end of the contract, a three-month notice period is required.

Salary: The Research Assistant – II shall receive a fixed monthly salary of LKR 55,000 and a fixed monthly fuel and accommodation allowance of LKR 5,000. The salary will be revised every 6 months.

Job Summary:

The Research Assistant – II (Fisheries Policy) will support project activities related to fisheries policy analysis and the impact of Indian trawling poaching in Sri Lankan waters. This role involves conducting surveys, collecting data, and assisting with the preparation of research reports that will influence policy recommendations and sustainable fisheries management practices.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct literature reviews and gather data through field surveys and questionnaires on fisheries policy, practices, and impacts in Sri Lanka.
• Analyze the environmental and socio-economic effects of Indian trawling poaching activities in Sri Lankan waters, and evaluate potential policy measures to mitigate these impacts.
• Organize workshops, meetings, and focus group discussions with fishing communities and stakeholders to facilitate information exchange and gather insights for research.
• Assist in drafting technical reports and research documentation related to fisheries policy and conservation.
• Contribute to preparing publications for academic journals, ensuring quality documentation of research findings.
• Support fieldwork and data collection activities in key locations, including Jaffna, Mannar, Kilinochchi, and Mullaitivu.
• Carry out any additional tasks or duties assigned by the Principal and Co-Investigator(s) to support the successful execution of the project

Qualifications & Skills Required:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Fisheries Science, Zoology, Marine Biology, Biological Science, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• Proficiency in English and Tamil (both written and spoken).
• Competency in IT tools, including Microsoft Word, Excel, SPSS, and email communication.
• Strong analytical and research skills, with experience in statistical analysis, qualitative research methods, and database management.
• Willingness to travel extensively within coastal regions of Sri Lanka and work in remote areas.
• A valid motorcycle license is advantageous.

Work Schedule:

The working schedule for both positions consist of fieldwork days from 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM, with office days from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required, depending on fieldwork schedules and research deadlines.

Selection Process:

• Interested candidates are requested to send their CV to ragavan@univ.jfn.ac.lk on or before 24.12.2024. Please mention BiMReN Grant: Research Assistant I or Research Assistant II (or both, if applicable) in the subject line. Bring your original documents for verification during the interview.
• The walk-in interview will be held on 27.12.2024  at 9.30 am at the Department of Fisheries, University of Jaffna. Required documents include your CV, educational certificates, and two recommendation letters.

Registrar
University of Jaffna