Work with the Sound Forest Lab!

In the Sound Forest Lab, we do ecology and conservation research with a focus on forest biodiversity. The Sound Forest Lab is based at the University of Wisconsin Madison, in two departments: The Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology and The Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies.

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Science Communication and Data Visualization Consultant — Conservation Impact

Project: Soundscape Baselines Project (SBP)
Organization: University of Wisconsin–Madison, the Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies & Forest and Wildlife Ecology, the Sound Forest Lab
Position type: Fixed-term consultancy, with potential for further collaboration (other arrangements may be possible for existing UW-Madison students and staff)
Estimated budget: $5000–$15,000, with possibility of further collaborations, depending on scope and skills

About the project

The Soundscape Baselines Project uses sound recordings, camera traps, and other environmental data to establish biodiversity baselines in intact forests around the world. The project works with conservation partners across multiple countries to develop evidence that can inform conservation decisions, evaluate environmental outcomes, and support emerging approaches to biodiversity finance.

We are seeking a creative, detail-oriented consultant to help translate this work into compelling, visually engaging communication materials for conservation organizations, decision-makers, and potential future partners and philanthropies.

Scope of work

The consultant will develop a portfolio of case studies and communication materials illustrating how conservation partners currently use, or would like to use, the Soundscape Baselines Project. The consultant will work with the project lead and research team, who will provide scientific context, existing analytical outputs, and access to participating partners. The consultant is not expected to independently conduct the underlying ecological research. The core deliverables will include:

1. Three in-depth conservation case studies

Develop case studies focused on partners in Wisconsin (USA), Peru, and Indonesia. For each case, the consultant will:

• Interview conservation and research partners to understand their priorities, challenges, and intended applications of biodiversity data.

• Work closely with the research team to understand and communicate relevant analytical results.

• Develop a clear narrative connecting the ecological evidence to conservation decisions and partner needs.

• Integrate relevant sound recordings, maps, satellite imagery, and data visualizations.

• Produce an engaging story map or comparable digital product that communicates the case to non-specialist audiences.

2. A broader overview of project partners and applications

Develop a concise, visually engaging overview of the organizations involved in the project, their conservation contexts, and the potential applications of biodiversity baselines. This may include partner interviews or surveys, maps or other visualizations, and the collection and presentation of partner statements or letters of support.

Desired qualifications and skills

We value demonstrated skills and relevant work samples more than formal educational qualifications. Particularly useful experience includes:

• Science communication, environmental storytelling, or translating complex research for non-specialist audiences.

• Interactive mapping, GIS, spatial data visualization, or digital story maps.

• Website development or other online communication products.

• Data visualization and the ability to navigate complex datasets and communicate analytical results accurately.

• Experience working with conservation organizations, environmental science, biodiversity, or nature-based solutions.

• Strong project management, attention to detail, initiative, and the ability to work independently while collaborating closely with researchers and partners.

• Respectful, thoughtful communication with conservation practitioners and international collaborators.

• Creative use of sound, imagery, satellite data, and other multimedia to communicate environmental information.

Experience with statistical or analytical tools (such as GAMS), sound design, or biodiversity monitoring is an advantage. Proficiency in English is required; Spanish, Bahasa Indonesia, or other relevant languages are a plus. Candidates do not need to meet every criterion. We are particularly interested in people who combine strong communication skills with technical or spatial visualization expertise.

Application requirements

Please submit to burivalova@wisc.edu:

• A portfolio of relevant communication products, such as interactive maps, story maps, data visualizations, websites, multimedia stories, or science communication materials (3-5). Can be shared as links, or downloadable files.

• A brief explanation of your role in producing each example, identifying your specific contributions to the narrative, design, visualization, analysis, and technical development.

• A short statement (1 page) describing your interest in the project and the skills you would bring. This statement will be read by a human, and we value authentic, human-written text more than the smoothest possible wording.

• CV

Please indicate your availability and, if applying as an independent consultant, your proposed approach and budget for the project. We welcome applicants from a range of professional and educational backgrounds. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.