Website University of Dar es Salaam
University of Dar es Salaam
Collections Officer – Wet-Preserved Specimens
Department: Zoology and Wildlife Conservation
Collaborating Partners: Re:Wild, Natural History Museum (London)
Project: Developing an Eastern Arc and Coastal Forest Biodiversity Centre for Research, Training, and Public Engagement
Employment Type: Contract (1 Year, renewable based on performance)
About the Project
This role is part of a collaborative initiative aimed at establishing a Biodiversity Centre focused on:
- Research
- Training
- Public engagement
The project emphasizes the conservation and study of biodiversity within the Eastern Arc and Coastal Forest ecosystems.
Job Summary
The Collections Officer will be responsible for managing and preserving wet-preserved biological specimens, ensuring:
- Proper documentation
- Safe storage
- Accurate cataloguing
- Compliance with health and safety standards
Key Responsibilities
1. Collection Management & Preservation
- Manage the care and long-term preservation of wet-preserved specimens
- Ensure proper identification, labeling, and documentation
- Maintain optimal storage and environmental conditions
- Enforce safety standards related to chemical preservatives
2. Documentation & Data Management
- Maintain accurate catalogues and digital databases
- Create and update digital records for all specimens
- Digitize:
- Specimen labels
- Accession records
- Field data
- Prepare inventories and collection management reports
3. Access & Utilization
- Manage specimen loans and internal access
- Facilitate limited external use for academic purposes
- Support exhibitions and outreach activities
4. Collection Development
- Contribute to ethical acquisition of specimens through:
- Donations
- Exchanges
- Support expansion and enrichment of collections
5. Supervision & Coordination
- Supervise:
- Technical staff
- Interns
- Student assistants
- Provide guidance on collection handling and documentation
6. Outreach & Engagement
- Support academic and public engagement activities
- Contribute to exhibitions involving preserved specimens
Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in:
- Applied Zoology
- Biology
- Wildlife Science & Conservation
- Aquatic Sciences & Fisheries
- From a recognized institution
Experience
- Fresh graduates are encouraged to apply, especially those with:
- Internship experience
- Research projects
- Volunteer work in related fields
- 1–2 years of experience in a relevant research or collections environment is an added advantage
Key Skills & Competencies
- Knowledge of specimen preservation and handling techniques
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
- Ability to manage databases and digital records
- Understanding of laboratory safety and compliance standards
- Ability to work independently and within a team
- Good communication and reporting skills
Terms of Service
- Contract duration: 1 year
- Renewable based on satisfactory performance
Why Join This Project?
- Work on a high-impact biodiversity conservation initiative
- Collaborate with international partners
- Gain hands-on experience in scientific collections management
- Contribute to research, conservation, and public education
How to Apply:
To submit your application, please follow the link provided below.
To apply for this job please visit hrmis.udsm.ac.tz.
