Research & Advisory – Seaweed Species and Site Assessment
Position: Seaweed Research Consultant
Duration: estimation of 3 – 6 months (in mutual agreement), part-time (desk + field missions)
Objective
We are looking for a consultant to lead the research and advisory phase of a regenerative seaweed farming project in Somalia. The goal is to build a solid scientific foundation before setting up pilot farms by identifying native species, assessing coastal suitability, and recommending entry points for community-based aquaculture.
YOUR ROLE
● Review existing research and data on Somalia’s seaweed species and marine ecosystems.
● Design and oversee a survey of Somali coastal areas to identify seaweed species and habitats.
● Collect samples directly (if able to travel to Somalia) or coordinate with local partners/universities who will collect samples under your guidance.
● Arrange for species identification using morphological methods and DNA barcoding (locally or in regional/international labs).
● Map ecological suitability of coastal sites, including currents, salinity, substrate, and biodiversity context.
● Provide an advisory report with recommendations for: viable local species for cultivation, priority sites for a pilot, ecological safeguards, and long-term considerations.
REQUIREMENTS
● MSc/PhD in Phycology, Marine Biology, Aquatic Ecology, or related field.
● Demonstrated expertise in tropical/subtropical seaweed taxonomy and ecology.
● Experience in East Africa / Indian Ocean is a strong asset.
● Familiarity with DNA-based species identification and ecological mapping.
● Ability to deliver applied, field-based research in low-data contexts.
● Strong skills in cross-cultural collaboration and remote coordination.
DELIVERABLES
● Inception report with methodology and field protocol.
● Survey results and interim presentation.
● Final advisory report (species, sites, pilot design options).
OFFER
Duration: 3–6 months, part-time (the scope of work and the duration will be further negotiated with the selected candidate)
Travel, accommodation, and field costs will be covered if the consultant undertakes sampling in Somalia. If travel is not feasible, the consultant coordinates sampling remotely, with costs for local partners and lab analysis covered separately.
How to apply
Candidates interested in the consultancy are expected to provide the following documentation:
● A technical proposal with a detailed response to the TOR, with specific focus on the scope of work, methodology, and timelines (should not be more than 7 pages max)
● Initial work plan and indication of availability
● A financial proposal detailing the daily rate in USD
● Two copies of recent and similar studies previously conducted or participated in by the consultant (reports, scientific publications, etc.)
● A detailed curriculum vitae (CV) of the consultant with contact details (the CV should include at least three traceable references).
Submission of the application
Interested consultants are requested to submit their bid applications to yasmin@drylansolutions.org by October 20, 2025, at 12:00 AM Somalia time.
