For ten weeks every autumn, Manx Wildlife Trust (MWT) sends two volunteers to the Calf of Man to conduct seal surveys. The surveys start at the beginning of September, enabling the survey to capture information about the pups and adult seals. Manx Wildlife Trust is looking for one more enthusiastic volunteer to participate in the ten-week survey period and to spend an additional two weeks completing the data analysis (at home). This is an exciting opportunity to study these unique mammals and would benefit anyone who already has experience with seal monitoring or photo ID skills. The successful volunteer Field Research Assistant will contribute to long-term ecological monitoring by collecting robust field data, undertaking individual photo-identification of grey seals, supporting drone-based surveys, managing scientific datasets and contributing to annual reports.

The role will be based at the Calf of Man Bird Observatory for 10 weeks starting 6th September 2026. This will be followed by 2 weeks of writing up the data, at a location to suit the volunteer. Availability at the start and end of the season would need to be flexible, as boat trips on/off the Calf of Man are very weather-dependent.

Key Responsibilities

Field Surveys

• Conduct daily surveys of breeding colonies.
• Count pups and adults.
• Record pup developmental stages.
• Monitor pup mortality.
• Record behavioural observations.

Photo-identification

• Photograph adults and mother–pup pairs.
• Match individuals against the existing catalogue.
• Maintain the photo-ID database.

Drone Surveys

• Assist drone surveys to detect inaccessible pups.
• Follow aviation and wildlife disturbance protocols.

Data Management

• Enter and validate data.
• Maintain photographic and survey databases.
• Support GIS mapping where required.

Reporting

• Contribute to scientific reports.
• Prepare weekly summaries.
• Assist with data analysis.

Ideally, experience in photo ID of seals and drone flying would be preferable, however training can be provided. Applicants must be comfortable walking 4 miles a day, on variable terrain.

Training Provided

• Grey seal ecology and identification.
• Survey methodology.
• Photo-ID techniques.
• Drone survey protocols.
• Health & Safety.
• Remote island operations.
• Scientific data management
• Training will be provided once on the Calf of Man.

Accommodation: The seal volunteers will be provided with accommodation in the farmhouse building. This accommodation is basic but adequate and should be kept clean and in good condition. Living on the Calf requires careful use of water, fuel and supplies. Basic living facilities are provided, including cooking utensils, bedding, satellite TV, heating, etc but the post holder is responsible for ordering and paying for their own food and personal provisions.

Perks and Benefits:
Free accommodation on the Calf of Man and a £40 per week food allowance will also be provided.
Professional mentoring. Contribution to long-term conservation science. Excellent experience for careers in wildlife research and conservation.

Essential Criteria:
· Degree (or studying towards) Biology, Zoology, Marine Biology, Ecology or related discipline.
· Excellent observational skills.
· Physically fit and able to walk several miles daily over rough terrain.
· Competent with computers and data management.
· Able to work independently in remote environments.
· Strong organisational and communication skills.

Desirable Criteria:
· Grey seal or marine mammal survey experience.
· Photo-identification experience.
· Drone qualification or experience.
· Scientific report writing.
· GIS and/or R experience.