Counter Wildlife Trafficking (CWT) Research Officer at Bincike International

Role Overview

• We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Counter Wildlife Trafficking (CWT) Research Officer to lead our efforts in combating Illegal Wildlife Trafficking (IWT) and Illegal Mining activities.
• The successful candidate will conduct critical research, gather intelligence, and monitor threats within Protected Areas in Nigeria and along transboundary corridors (specifically focusing on borders with Cameroon, Chad, and Niger).
• This role requires a professional capable of understanding the convergence between wildlife crime and illicit extraction activities.

Key Responsibilities
Research & Intelligence Gathering:

• Conduct field-based and desk research to map illicit supply chains related to wildlife trafficking and illegal mining in target Protected Areas.
• Investigate the operational overlap between poachers and illegal miners to understand financing and logistical routes.
• Monitor trends in the trafficking of endangered species (flora and fauna) and mineral resources.

Transboundary Monitoring:

• Assess cross-border smuggling routes used for trafficking wildlife products and solid minerals.
• Collaborate with regional partners to track movement across Nigeria’s borders.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Liaise with relevant government agencies (e.g., National Park Service, NESREA, Nigeria Customs Service) and security agencies to support enforcement efforts.
• Engage with local communities to understand the drivers of illegal mining and poaching and develop community-based reporting mechanisms.

Data Analysis & Reporting:

• Maintain a secure database of incidents, actors, and seizure data.
• Produce high-quality situation reports, policy briefs, and risk assessments for Bincike International management and donors.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Criminology, Environmental Science, Zoology, International Relations, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 2–4 years of experience in conservation, security research, or investigations. Experience in the Nigerian Northeast or Northwest regions is a strong asset.

Skills:

• Strong research and report writing skills.
• Knowledge of Nigerian environmental laws and wildlife protection acts.
• Ability to work in remote and volatile environments.
• Proficiency in data collection tools (ODK, KoboToolbox) and GIS mapping is an added advantage.