Science Fellow – Animal Behavior

Be part of the dynamic and innovative Science Operations team where we are part of a broader mission to Lead Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, Care for animals and the environment, Connect people to nature, and Conserve our natural resources.

As the Science Fellow – Animal Behavior Project Hire, you will assist the Science Operations team at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® and Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Lodge with operational and strategic projects related to animal behavior and welfare. You will collaborate with stakeholders within the Science Operations team and animal husbandry teams to complete these science-based projects.

This one year project hire role will be based at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and will report to the Science Operations Manager.

Responsibilities :

• Assist in the design, implementation, and completion of scientific projects focused on understanding animal behavior and cognition in the context of applied animal care and welfare. Project assignments will be based on applicant experience and team needs but may include:
  • Validate the use of a proprietary machine learning program to study the social behavior and space use patterns of an all-male group of Nile crocodiles.
  • Evaluate the effect of an experience-based enrichment program on the activity and space use of Sumatran tigers.
  • Study foraging and anticipatory behavior in Asian small-clawed otters as part of a large, multi-institutional study.
  • Evaluate the behavior of ungulates under different management styles as part of a large, multi-institutional study.
  
  
• Support the continuation of ongoing operational projects, which may include:
  • Monitor the activity budget, social behavior, and space use patterns of an all-male western lowland gorilla group.
  • Monitor the social behavior and space use patterns of an all-male Nile crocodile group.
  • Monitor the activity budget, and enrichment utilization of nocturnal animals living at Conservation Station.
  • Evaluate the visibility of animals to guests throughout the entirety of Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
  
  
• Contribute to building scientific capacity within animal program cast.
• Share team projects and stories through interactions with Disney guests.
• Contribute to the development of science focused interactive, interpretive experiences for Disney guests.
• Communicate project findings in stakeholder/team meetings and scientific/popular publications.

Required Qualifications :

• Experience working in a research capacity with an AZA zoo/aquarium, research center, laboratory or equivalent, OR in the field of conservation.
• Proven experience in studying the behavior of animals either ex- or in-situ.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented atmosphere and have strong interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to interact and interpret science- and conservation-related information with varied audiences.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Attention to detail and excellent organization abilities, with ability to initiate, coordinate, and prioritize responsibilities and follow through on tasks and projects.
• Enthusiasm for the work of zoos and aquariums in the fields of animal behavior and welfare.

Preferred Qualifications :

• Knowledge of and interest in a broad array of taxa including ungulates, primates, birds, and invertebrates.
• Knowledge of topical animal behavior, cognition, care, and welfare research topics within the zoo and aquarium industry.
• Experience with managing and analyzing datasets, particularly using R software.

• History of publication in peer-reviewed journals and/or demonstration of technical and report writing for varied audiences.

• Teaching or lecturing experience.

Required Education:

• Minimum of a master’s degree in biology, psychology, anthropology or related scientific field

Additional Information

• Benefits and Perks: Disney offers a rewards package to help you live your best life! This includes health and savings benefits, educational opportunities and special extras that only Disney can provide! Learn more about our benefits and perks at https://jobs.disneycareers.com/benefits

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About Walt Disney World Resort:

Since opening in 1971, Walt Disney World Resort has played an important role in many childhood and family memories. Today, hundreds of millions of guests from around the globe visit this magical place to enjoy a Disney vacation. Through a combination of creativity, innovation and technology, the resort immerses guests in classic Disney tales and new kinds of family entertainment. Drawing from a rich heritage of storytelling, Walt Disney World Resort cast members bring Disney magic to life through unmatched attention to detail and superior guest service.

About The Walt Disney Company:

The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise that includes three core business segments: Disney Entertainment, ESPN, and Disney Experiences. From humble beginnings as a cartoon studio in the 1920s to its preeminent name in the entertainment industry today, Disney proudly continues its legacy of creating world-class stories and experiences for every member of the family. Disney’s stories, characters and experiences reach consumers and guests from every corner of the globe. With operations in more than 40 countries, our employees and cast members work together to create entertainment experiences that are both universally and locally cherished.

This position is with Walt Disney Parks and Resorts U.S., Inc. , which is part of a business we call Walt Disney World Resort .

Walt Disney Parks and Resorts U.S., Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, military or veteran status, medical condition, genetic information or disability, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. Disney champions a business environment where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, create the best stories and be relevant in a constantly evolving world.

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