Cleveland Metroparks and Cleveland Metroparks Zoo/Zoo Society invites applicants for a new education research initiative involving learning, affect and behavioral outcomes in free-choice and guided learning environments. Particularly, how interpretation, program, exhibit, graphic and cyber infrastructure can be integrated to provide scientific information and opportunities for eliciting human behaviors that have direct environmental conservation implications.

More specifically, this position focuses on the following activities:

- developing and strengthening the multidisciplinary partnerships of zoos and universities to promote success of conservation and education projects
 -conducting research and work to understand and increase the connection between learning and conservation action in Cleveland Metroparks Zoo’s conservation and education communities
 -helping technical teams build prototypes of educational media, such as exhibitry, graphic panels, websites, virtual social networks, and experimenting with such architectures
 -working with Zoo practitioners to integrate education and conservation psychology research into practical applications
 -advancing conservation education and conservation psychology research by developing scientific publications, media presence, and fundraising proposals

Requirements

Ph.D. degree or in the last six months of a Ph.D. program in Education, Psychology, Learning Technologies, Cognitive Studies, Environmental Studies, or related field required.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license under the laws of the State of Ohio.
Three years of experience designing and conducting informal science education studies in free-choice learning environments.
Experience using cyber tools (websites, virtual social medial, video games, and/or dedicated e-tools) in extending informal science education.
Knowledge of one or more of these disciplines: experimental design, statistical methods for social research, web architecture, electronic or distance learning tools, data processing, informal science education and zoo interpretation.
Excellent project management skills. Ability to coordinate multidisciplinary research teams within complex partnerships with multiple agendas and levels of interest, with a tight focus on timely project deliverables and a disciplined scientific output.
Excellent scientific writing ability, with proven output in scientific, popular articles, and funding proposals.
Strong interest and commitment to environmental conservation and the natural world.
Ability to speak and write clearly, concisely and persuasively using correct grammar, spelling and punctuation with ability to communicate one-on-one or in group settings.
Management skills and strong business acumen, including problem solving, vision, ability to manage multiple programs and meet deadlines, collaboration, leadership, decision making and ability to analyze diverse facts and develop clear and concise reports and recommendations.
Proficiency in software programs including all Microsoft Office programs.
Mature professional attitude and considerable discretion, including ability to manage confidential information.
Must be non-smoker/tobacco user.