Research Fellow - Plant Conservation
The Plant Conservation Fellow works with the Director of Collections and Conservation Lead to develop and execute conservation projects. He or she acts as a knowledge source, conduit, and facilitator. This fellowship will form and coordinate projects for the Mid-Atlantic Plant Conservation Alliance (MAPCA). The MAPCA is envisioned to be a group of organizations, agencies, groups, and individuals that give attention to and provide stewardship for plant populations of conservation concern around the region. The Plant Conservation Coordinator will solicit groups, organizations and businesses to join the MAPCA and will provide support to member organizations including prioritization of work, capacity building, fundraising, information decimination, and linking plant expertise with stewardship activities.
Essential Functions
Conservation Outreach Coordinator
- Develop a volunteer program to engage the public in conservation activities and promote native plant stewardship.
- Develop educational programming to promote botanical conservation actions. Work to build understanding of the natural history, ecology, and vegetation of the Mid-Atlantic. Disseminate knowledge to constituents through a variety of means.
- Coordinate projects for MCC and the alliance, including but not limited to, species, population and site-level conservation and broader plant community restoration.
- Coordinate grant proposals with MAPCA partners and assist in other fundraising efforts.
Form and Develop Membership of the Mid-Atlantic Plant Conservation Alliance
- Develop and implement the framework for an alliance for the conservation and stewardship of Mid-Atlantic native plants
- Develop an advisory committee to prioritize work of the alliance, monitor progress, and assist with oversight of conservation efforts.
- Develop membership within the alliance. Identify key stakeholders from all seven Mid-Atlantic states and encourage them to participate.
- Liaison with National and State PCAs.
- Establish regular communication with private, state, national and international conservation organization partners. Facilitate meetings, work groups, and special events as needed.
- Carry out other such duties as may be assigned or requested. Contribute to MCC activities as required. Actively participate as a member of Mt. Cuba Center’s community
Qualifications
- Masters degree in ecology, botany, plant science, social science, or related field and 3 years’ experience within the plant conservation discipline. A doctorate in these fields is preferred.
- Experience with developing and/or managing volunteer programs.
- Proficiency in communication, presentation, and group facilitation.
- The ability to work with many individuals and personality types.
- Broad writing skills
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and ability to learn and adapt to various software and technology programs to complete work duties including plant databases and database management software
- Sound reasoning and judgment in making practical business decisions
- Demonstrated ability in organizing, managing and motivating others
- Ability to effectively fulfill organizational leadership roles and build meaningful partnerships
- Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build strong professional relationships and persuasively communicate with Mt. Cuba Center staff and the public
- Self-motivated, organized, attentive to details, and the ability to manage time and effectively function without close supervision.
- Ability and willingness to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, holidays and special events as needed
- Physical requirements include: bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching, reaching, carrying, lifting, pushing, or pulling of objects up to 50 pounds
- Willingness and ability to work outside in a variety of conditions