Feline Welfare Associate Researcher

We are the UK’s largest cat welfare charity. All over the country, our passionate employees, volunteers and supporters are using their kindness and expertise to make life better for millions of cats and the people who care for them.

Will you join us and make life better for cats?

Responsibilities of our Feline Welfare Associate Researcher:

• work on domestic cat welfare related projects both internally in Cats Protection and in collaboration with academics and other organisations to increase the knowledge and data on cat welfare within a practical shelter landscape
• daily tasks including supporting the completion of research papers, literature reviews, evidence synthesis and its critical evaluation as well as qualitative data analysis from ongoing projects
• substantial periods of cat based fieldwork including travel and stays away from home will also be required as part of the role

About the Feline Research team:

• the team work across a series of complex research workstreams which prioritise the development of non-invasive, biologically sound ways to support cat-wellbeing focused data gathering
• the post holder will be required to work closely and collaboratively with the rest of the team, in order to support on varied research tasks subject to the needs of each ongoing project
• the team consist of Feline Welfare Postdoctoral Researchers and a Feline Welfare Scientist as well as the wider research team

What we’re looking for in our Feline Welfare Associate Researcher:

• previously undertaken non-invasive animal behaviour and welfare focused studies including literature searches, project design, data collection and analysis, manuscript writing
• applied animal welfare and husbandry experience e.g. in shelter/zoo/animal charity/veterinary/community context
• excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and oral
• self-motivation and the ability to effectively problem solve and work on own initiative
• post-graduate degree in animal behaviour, animal welfare, veterinary medicine, psychology, biological science or related subject
• ideally valid UK driving licence

What we can offer you:

• range of health benefits
• 26 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing with length of service
• Salary Finance, which empowers you to take control of your financial wellbeing
• and much more, which you can learn about here

Interested? Here’s how to apply:

Application closing date: 27 April 2025

Virtual interview date: 06 and 09 May 2025

Please note, we do not accept applications or speculative CVs from agencies.

Applications may close before the deadline, so please apply early to avoid disappointment. Please note, applications received after the closing date may not be responded to.

If successful, your recruitment journey will include:

1. anonymised application form
2. Virtual interview with presentation

Please email recruitment@cats.org.uk if you require any adjustments to be made for you to complete your application or to participate in the recruitment journey.

We operate a bias-free application process in our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. To assess your application quickly, fairly and objectively, please fully complete the qualifications and work history sections of our online application form.

Redacted CVs may be accepted by exception.

We believe being an inclusive, diverse organisation - where we welcome diversity of thought, value individuals' experience and can reach and partner all areas of society - is crucial if we're to help more cats. Our ambition is to work together to promote a more inclusive environment, which attracts all candidates and signals our commitment to celebrate and promote diversity.

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