Leading Conservation Scientist

The Odonata Foundation is seeking a visionary leader to serve as its Science Director.

This new position will lead the organisation's conservation science, research, and evidence-based species recovery strategies across all programs and landscapes.

The successful candidate will provide intellectual leadership across Odonata's scientific priorities and have autonomy to build and grow a small research-focused team over time.

This role will cultivate a hub of scientific inquiry and innovation, ensuring Odonata's conservation strategies are informed by cutting-edge research and best practice.

The Science Director will work closely with internal and external stakeholders to:

• Develop and implement Odonata's science and species program, ensuring best-practice, innovation, and measurable impact in threatened species recovery and biodiversity restoration.
• Build and maintain strategic partnerships with universities, government agencies, First Nations organisations, research institutions, and conservation bodies to position Odonata as a leader in applied conservation science.
• Oversee scientific integrity across all projects, ensuring data-driven decision-making, rigorous monitoring and evaluation, and transparent reporting to stakeholders.

We are looking for a highly qualified individual with:

• Postgraduate qualifications (preferably PhD) in conservation ecology, zoology, or related discipline.
• Minimum 10 years' professional experience in conservation ecology, with a preference towards strong field-based experience and subsequent team leadership experience.
• Proven track record in leading complex, multi-stakeholder science or conservation programs.
• Experience in translating complex ecological science into policy influence and practical conservation delivery.
• Ability to think strategically and align with the organisation's mission, culture and goals.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively convey scientific information to diverse stakeholders.
• Extensive public speaking, media and thought leadership experience to support organisational goals.
• Proven capacity to lead high-performing teams dispersed across geographies. Ethical standards.
• Adherence to high ethical standards and a commitment to the values of the non-profit organisation.

Odonata Foundation offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in conservation.

The role includes regular weekly travel to Odonata-managed sites, primarily Mt Rothwell Sanctuary in Little River, with additional visits to other Victorian locations and occasional interstate travel.

This role is based at our Melbourne office with flexibility to work from home.

We are working to rebuild genetic resilience in threatened species populations, create and maintain feral-free habitats for animals to recover and support biodiversity rejuvenation across Australia.

Our work is underpinned by our scientifically backed We Save Species Recovery Model.

This model asserts that once a species has been recovered to a minimum of 500 individuals across at least 5 sites, the species is genetically secure and protected against climate-related threats.

Our achievements to-date include being foundational to the downlisting of the mainland eastern barred bandicoot from 'extinct in the wild' to 'endangered' (just the second time this has happened with a land-based mammal in Australia) and leading the most successful semi-wild breeding program of the southern brush-tailed rock-wallaby (less than 100 remain in the wild).

We save species by restoring their natural habitats and giving them the resources they need to thrive.

By joining our team, you'll be part of a dynamic and collaborative environment that drives impactful conservation outcomes.