Research Scientist - Cat Behaviour and Welfare
Drive feline welfare research and population studies as a Research Scientist at Cats Protection.
Best for:Best for researchers with a PhD in animal welfare or behaviour and experience in quantitative and qualitative data analysis.
Overview
Cats Protection seeks a Research Scientist for a 6-month fixed-term contract to lead feline welfare and population research projects. Based remotely in the UK, the successful candidate will design studies, collect and analyse quantitative and qualitative data, and author scientific publications. The role also involves conducting literature reviews, delivering evidence-based recommendations, and representing the charity at external events. Applicants must hold a PhD in a relevant scientific discipline and have a strong background in animal welfare research.
What you'll do
- Execute cat population and welfare research projects internally and with external partners to improve feline welfare outcomes.
- Contribute to the design and implementation of research initiatives aligned with organizational objectives.
- Lead qualitative and quantitative data collection, advanced analysis, and reporting, including writing scientific publications.
- Conduct thorough literature reviews to formulate evidence-based guidance and best practices for stakeholders.
- Perform fieldwork and site visits for primary research data collection when necessary.
- Cultivate robust relationships with internal and external partners to encourage the adoption of welfare assessment tools.
- Deliver research expertise and analytical support across multiple directorates including Cat Welfare and Operations.
- Represent the charity at academic conferences, public events, and professional engagements.
Requirements
Degree required: PhD in animal behaviour, animal welfare, human-animal interactions, veterinary medicine, biological science or related subject
Language: English
Instruction: English
Publications: First-author publications in animal welfare studies
- Experience conducting both quantitative and qualitative research projects
- Prior animal welfare studies including first-author publications
- Applied animal welfare and husbandry experience in shelter, zoo, charity, veterinary, or community settings
- High level of IT literacy with the ability to analyse complex data accurately and draft precise reports
- Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills
- Right to work in the United Kingdom
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-30
Candidates must submit an anonymised application form through the online careers portal before the closing date. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to participate in a virtual interview process that includes a presentation.
- Anonymised application form
Contact
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