Home arrow Jobs arrow South Africa: Director Applied Biodiversity Research, SANBI
South Africa: Director Applied Biodiversity Research, SANBI
Applied Biodiversity Research Division, preferably in Pretoria, but with Cape Town as an optional location. This senior research position requires a highly motivated individual to take the lead and manage components of a research programme in the Applied Biodiversity Research Division. SANBI has adopted a managed network model, which means that core SANBI research staff work together with universities and research institutions, to focus on particular topics. A suitably qualified biodiversity scientist is required, with strong skills and experience in at least one of the following key research areas: • understanding the risk associated with invasives, GMOs and land use • species and ecosystems of special concern, including threatened species and threatened ecosystems • sustainable use. (Candidates who bring additional new skills to SANBI, e.g. in marine biodiversity, or with a background in faunal studies, are encouraged to apply.)

Appointment requires a PhD in a relevant aspect of biodiversity science, enhanced by at least five years’ demonstrated research and management experience, good leadership skills, ability to communicate effectively in English (competency in other official languages is an advantage), and the ability to interact with members of the managed network. The Director will also need excellent organisational and people management skills in order to realise the potential of the managed network model. A valid Code B driver’s licence is essential.

Responsibilities include: • leading and co-ordinating components of biodiversity research using the managed network model • managing staff and resources to achieve research outputs • developing partnerships with other organisations to undertake biodiversity research and monitoring • securing funding for components of research • producing research outputs that focus on the needs of SANBI stakeholders • providing expert scientific advice.

South Africa boasts an exceptionally rich biodiversity. SANBI, a public entity operating in nine different centres, is mandated with the study, conservation and promotion of an entire country’s fauna, flora and their ecosystems.
These career opportunities are available to appropriately qualified and experienced scientists.

SANBI offers all-inclusive salary packages of R540 429 per annum.

Please Note: 1) Applications must be accompanied by a letter motivating why the applicant should be favourably considered for the position. 2) A competency test may be conducted during the interview.

All applications will be considered with the understanding that, in terms of the SANBI Employment Equity Plan, preference will currently be given to candidates from the designated groups.

Applications submitted by employment agencies, will not be considered.

SANBI reserves the right not to fill these positions.

Contact Ms Ofentse Masisi on 011 844 0197 or, preferably, forward a letter and concise CV to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or fax 086 635 9931. Postal applications are to be addressed to Ms Ofentse Masisi, LR Strategic Placement, P.O. Box 98, The Woodlands 2080.

Closing date: 5 May 2008
PDF PDF Print Print E-mail Email to a friend