Conservation Medicine and Science - Post-Doctoral Veterinary Fellow

Join the PRIDE!

Since opening in 1934, Brookfield Zoo Chicago has had an international reputation for taking a cutting-edge role in animal care and conservation of the natural world. Brookfield Zoo Chicago is an active partner in wildlife protection programs around the world, including the Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, the world's longest-running study of bottlenose dolphins. We have pioneered the field of conservation psychology, the study of how people connect with animals and nature. We are able to reach so many audiences each year, including 2 million zoo guests engaged by unique exhibits and programs; some 250,000 schoolchildren, campers, and families who participate in award-winning science education programs; nearly 24,000 teachers who take part in our professional development workshops; and, diverse communities across Chicagoland. Brookfield Zoo Chicago is known throughout the world as a leader in animal welfare and conservation, this venerable institution also serves as a potent economic engine, top tourism attraction, and award-winning educational institution.

This position contributes to the success of Brookfield Zoo Chicago ("BZC") by developing, implementing and executing comprehensive wildlife health research and scientific programs, communication with collaborators, project coordination, data analyses and preparation of scientific papers and publications. The Conservation Medicine and Science program within the Department of Animal Health, Welfare and Science consists of multiple long-standing core Conservation Science programs, growth programs and future opportunities. The fellow will develop and promote existing and future research of conservation medicine initiatives, especially as they relate to local, national, and international priorities of Brookfield Zoo Chicago. Position would build upon an existing collaboration with Punta San Juan Program. Funding is provided by Brookfield Zoo Chicago in the form of standard salary and fringe-benefit costs. The program shall commence in 2026 (start date TBD), and continue in effect for a period of up to three (3) years, as this is a fixed term, grand-funded position.

This is a non-union full-time salaried position, grade 7 with an expected hiring range of $62,125.00 to $68,337.50 annually.

Principal Job Duties and Responsibilities:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.

• Plans and carries out research specific to the Punta San Juan project.
• Trains staff at collaborating institutions in project methodology.
• Assists the Director of Conservation Medicine and Science in related research projects as required.
• Analyzes compiled data.
• Prepares reports for scientific publication and presentation and for distribution to collaborators.
• Collates, tabulates and organizes all incoming data.
• Other related duties as assigned.

*Denotes Essential Job Function(s)

Position Requirements:

• Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine degree from an accredited institution or recognized by the American Veterinary Medical Association required.
• Valid state veterinary license (if non-Illinois licensed, must obtain Illinois licenses within 6 months of hire).
• Experience working with live animals safely.
• A valid driver's license is required on date of hire. If an Illinois resident, must possess a valid Illinois driver's license at the time of hire or must obtain one within 90 days of hire. A valid out-of-state driver's license is required at time of hire for out-of-state residents.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• English fluency ability to read, write, speak, and comprehend at an advanced level is required
• Strong communication skills, verbal, written and listening skills; strong presentation/platform skills and experience essential.
• Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills; must be able to establish and maintain strong, positive relationships. Ability to work with opposing constituencies, operate as a facilitator, and a reconciler of interests.
• Must be proactive, persistent, and helpful.
• Must be self-motivated, resourceful, results-oriented, confident, and have strong planning and organizational skills.
• Strong character and ethics; must be fair, objective, assertive, and able to withstand criticism and overcome adversity and challenges.
• Must be able to handle multiple projects and priorities simultaneously and work in a fast-paced environment.
• Cultural competency; experience and/or ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience.
• Experience writing reports and scientific papers, grant preparation, and oral presentations.
• Basic computer literacy with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint, including skills in database management, statistical packages, and graphing software.

Desirable/Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience working at a zoological or non-profit institution desirable.
• ACZM or ACVPM Residency training or board-certification.
• Graduate (MS or PhD, PhD preferred) degree.
• Successful track record of fundraising/generating revenue and program support through grants and other means.
• Relevant budgeting experience strongly preferred.
• Multilingual ability, Spanish fluency a plus.

Additional Information: This position description summarizes the primary duties and functions of this position, but should not be considered a complete listing of every duty the incumbent may ever be called upon to perform. This is a visible position with significant responsibility for resources, assets, and results achieved. Incumbent is required to gain an intimate understanding of the organization and have a strong commitment to BZC mission, goals, values, and operating philosophies. International travel will be required. Individual will be expected to be present and visible at events sponsored by BZC for its employees, Board members, and other professional participants and audiences, and to represent BZC externally. Work weeks in excess of 40 hours are not unusual. Thus, the individual must be prepared to make a significant commitment to the organization.

Brookfield Zoo Chicago is an Equal Opportunity Employer.