The Restoration R&D Scientist supports the implementation and advancement of Coral Gardeners’ restoration research and development activities, with a strong focus on field-based experimentation and applied science.
Working under the scientific guidance of the Director of Restoration Science R&D and in close operational coordination with the COO, this role contributes to the testing, refinement, and documentation of restoration methods, tools, and workflows to strengthen Coral Gardeners’ methodology across sites.
This is a hands-on role designed for a high-potential scientific profile who can translate scientific priorities into robust field execution, while progressively building the skills and ownership required to lead experimental workstreams over time.
Support the implementation of Coral Gardeners’ restoration R&D priorities through field-based experimentation and applied scientific work.
Contribute to the design, execution, and follow-up of experiments related to coral restoration methods, tools, materials, and workflows.
Translate scientific objectives into practical field trials under the guidance of the Director of Restoration Science R&D and in close coordination with the Standardisation & quality lead and the COO.
Coordinate and participate in field trials across Coral Gardeners locations, ensuring scientific protocols are applied consistently and data is collected accurately.
Work closely with CG Labs, Restoration Managers, and the Standardisation & quality lead Team to test and refine restoration approaches that are practical, scalable, and aligned with operational standards.
Collect, organise, maintain, and quality-check experimental and monitoring data to support reliable analysis and decision-making.
Contribute to the analysis and interpretation of field results, and support the formulation of clear technical recommendations.
Assist in documenting methodologies, protocols, findings, and lessons learned from experimental activities.
Align experimental execution with field realities, operational priorities, and restoration constraints in collaboration with the Restoration managers, the Director of Restoration Science R&D and relevant teams.
Provide regular updates and structured feedback to both scientific and restoration leadership to support continuous improvement.
Monitor relevant scientific literature, tools, and innovations in coral restoration to support ongoing R&D priorities.
Support coordination with external scientific and technical partners when needed.
Contribute to project planning, logistics, and operational preparation for experimental activities.
Share findings and practical insights with internal teams to strengthen knowledge transfer and continuous improvement across Coral Gardeners.
Progressively take ownership of specific experimental workstreams and demonstrate readiness for increased responsibilities over time.
Strong scientific rigor and attention to detail.
Hands-on mindset and willingness to spend significant time in the field.
Strong organisational skills and ability to manage experimental follow-up reliably.
Ability to work effectively across scientific and operational teams.
Good analytical skills, with the ability to turn data and observations into clear, actionable insights.
Clear communication skills, especially in translating technical findings into practical recommendations.
Proactive, adaptable, and solution-oriented.
Strong interest in coral conservation, restoration, and innovation aligned with Coral Gardeners’ mission.
Demonstrated potential to grow into a leadership role.
Working dive experience in tropical and temperate marine systems
Experience deploying instruments, building experimental infrastructure
Experience working in water for extended periods
Extensive boat driving experience
Experience trailering and launching boats
Knowledge and experience with boat mechanics and maintenance
Experience with excursion planning, execution and reporting
Experimental design experience, statistical analysis