The Oxford Navigation Group
OxNav Field Assistant 2026: job details
Location: UK seabird colonies (one or more of Skomer, Rum, Copeland)
Pay: Salary at or around grade 04S point 1 (exact level depends on final agreement between funder, The Crown Estate, and Oxford University). Any travel between field sites + field accommodation are also covered.
Duration: May - August /September 2026 (exact dates to be confirmed)
OxNav is seeking a Field Assistant for a 4 month duration to aid in gathering Manx Shearwater tracking data. OxNav, a research group in the Department of Biology, University of Oxford, focuses on studying seabird movement and navigation.
The primary responsibility of the Field Assistant involves supporting projects aimed at deepening our understanding of shearwater behaviour, thereby contributing valuable insights for more informed assessments related to offshore wind activities. This role will mainly entail assisting in tracking Manx shearwaters across three SPA seabird colonies: Skomer, Rum, and Lighthouse Island (Copelands). The position requires the Field Assistant to reside at field sites alongside a small team of seabird biologists.
Manx shearwaters, a member of the procellariform seabirds, commonly nest in burrows, with the majority of the global breeding population concentrated in the UK. Since shearwaters are nocturnal, most tracking activities will take place at night, requiring the Field Assistant to be prepared for consecutive night shifts during tracking periods. Fieldwork, and access to at least one of the field sites, is physically demanding.
This opportunity is well-suited for an individual seeking to acquire field experience and pursue a career in seabird biology. The role requires a positive and flexible attitude toward fieldwork, as well as a willingness to live and work in remote locations alongside a small team (sometimes just one other person).
Responsibilities and duties
• Assisting in shearwater tracking through monitoring study burrows, bird handling and aiding with the deployment of biotelemetry devices where necessary
• Aiding in the day-to-day running of the field site, for example maintaining and locating study burrows
• Supporting the programming, testing, and preparation of biotelemetry devices for deployment
• Waiting for birds to return to their study sites from foraging trips for sometimes several days/weeks.
• Contributing to long-term data where necessary through monitoring chick growth, key phenological dates and taking measurements of egg size.
• Assisting with OxNavs ongoing research projects and navigation studies where necessary
• Uploading and recording data in a clear and organised fashion, spotting discrepancies and proposing refinements where necessary
• Entering data and maintaining databases
• Maintaining equipment and contributing to the general cleanliness and upkeep of the field site.
• Organising travel and accomodation between study colonies where neccasary
Selection criteria
Essential
• Strong attention to detail, with the ability to organise field activities and record data in a clear and organised fashion
• Proficient in practical skills, adept at applying hands-on abilities effectively in various tasks and situations.
• Possesses strong teamwork abilities and excellent interpersonal skills, adept at living and working harmoniously within a team environment
• IT skills including a knowledge of Word, Excel (i.e. data basing) and Powerpoint programs
• Ability to organise your own work load and take initiative as appropriate • Enthusiastic about seabird biology with a strong desire to build a career in this field • Knowledge of health and safety regulations
• Right to work in the UK
Desirable
• Educated to at least degree level or equivalent qualification in biology or related discipline
• Previous fieldwork experience working in remote locations
• Clean UK driving licence
• BTO ringing or trainee ringing permit
How to apply
We are looking to conduct on-line interviews for this position from early-mid February 2026. Please apply by January 30th 2026 by filling out the form found in this link. The form will ask you questions about your experience, reasons for applying, suitability and aspirations, and will require uploading of a CV and the names of two referees who can support your application.
Note that as of 9th January 2026 we have slightly changed the application procedure (to the form), but if you have already applied using the previously published procedure that is fine: essentially the same information is collected, and there is no need to apply a second time.
As an equal opportunities’ employer, the University of Oxford is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse environment. We strive to create a workplace that promotes fairness, equality, and respect for all members of our community, ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive and succeed.