Job Description

The International Potato Center (CIP), on behalf of WorldFish, is seeking one (1) Research Associate – Fisheries Assessment to support WorldFish activities under the AABS Digital Coast WP1 project in Maputo.

WorldFish has established a hosting agreement with CIP for the Mozambique project, leveraging CIP’s legal and operational framework to provide administrative support services.

 About the position

The Research Associate will be responsible for the day-to-day implementation and coordination of Mozambique-based activities under the Digital Coasts work package of the Asia–Africa BlueTech Superhighway project, funded by the UK Government. The project will be implemented in close collaboration with MIMAIP and its relevant agencies (ADNAP and IDEPA), as well as in partnership with universities and non-governmental organizations.

The role will involve working closely with national and international specialists in fisheries, governance, gender, and nutrition to develop and implement research approaches, technologies, and predictive models that inform fisheries decision-making and policy in Mozambique.

The selected candidate will be based in Maputo, Mozambique, and will report to the Project Senior Scientist (WP1).

Key responsibilities

• Collaborate with the project team and senior experts to develop ecological and digital research approaches and tools aimed at improving knowledge of fisheries resources, exploitation, and sustainable co-management.
• Engage with WorldFish and partner scientists across multiple regions to contribute to and learn from ongoing work on coastal fisheries co-management and fisheries technologies.
• Work closely with research institutions, government bodies, and NGO partners to build capacity and implement key research activities.
• Lead data collection, data validation, quality assurance, and data analysis under project activities.
• Under the guidance of senior team members, including the work package lead, contribute to high-quality scientific publications arising from project findings.
• Support the development of policy recommendations and action plans for the implementation of digital fisheries monitoring systems and predictive models in Mozambique.
• Contribute positively to team collaboration and the shared objectives of WorldFish and its project partners.
• Ensure timely and accurate reporting of project activities and outcomes in line with WorldFish and donor requirements.

Requirements

What are we looking for?

The ideal candidate should possess the following skills, qualifications, experience, and personal attributes:

• Mozambican nationality (mandatory).
• A Master’s degree in Fisheries, Marine Science, Conservation Biology, or a related field.
• A minimum of six (6) years of relevant experience in a similar role.
• Demonstrated experience conducting research on marine ecosystems and fisheries resource status.
• A strong record of applied, transdisciplinary research, including engagement with fishing communities to co-design management approaches and interventions.
• Proven ability to work independently in remote locations for extended periods with minimal supervision.
• A strong team player with a commitment to building capacity among partners and stakeholders.
• Proficiency in mixed-methods research approaches, methodologies, and data analysis.
• Working proficiency in both English and Portuguese.
• Working knowledge of additional local or regional languages is an added advantage.

Benefits

Why consider this opportunity?

• This position offers the chance to join a dynamic, international team contributing to a high-impact project.

What we offer

• A supportive and dynamic working environment.
• A competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience.
• An inclusive and diverse workplace.
• A fixed-term contract of one year.