Principal Scientist: Biodiversity Assessment and Monitoring

IMPORTANT:  This Advertiser has requested that applicants MUST be National Residents / Valid Work Permit-holders.  Other applicants need not apply.

 

The successful candidate must demonstrate the ability to provide leadership and strategic direction nationally, with some international participation; be an established scientist with a proven and sustained track record; recognised nationally as a leader in their field; must be able to lead implementation of projects involving SANBI scientists and partners, and lead the establishment of formal networks at national/regional level; must demonstrate ability to undertake projects independently; show evidence of impact across interacting fields or demonstrate use of outputs by decision-makers or in practice; and demonstrate ability to provide guidance to scientists at lower levels and takes responsibility for development of staff and students.

Requirements

Appointment requires a PhD qualification in biodiversity-related field, with a least 7 years' relvent working experience. Qualification and experience must be enhanced by proficiency in relevant computer programmes.

The appointee will be responsible for:

• Scientific leadership of the National Biodiversity Assessment (NBA) and conceptual guidance for futher development and implementation of national biodversity monitoring framework;
• Development of relevant research programmes relating to classification, monitoring and assessment of ecosystems; 
• Guidance and direction for ecosystem classification, including the national vegetation map; and
• Contribute to SANBI's capacity development initiatives (students, interns, mentorship) through supervision of students and staff.

All of the above must be achieved through engagement with partners as part of the managed network as well as in collaboration with the SANBI National Biodiversity Monitoring Coordinator.

Please note that the successful candidate should have a good spoken and written command of English and another official language. Possession of a valid Code B driver's  license with at least one year's driving experience is compulsory. 

Benefits

SANBI offers an all-inclusive annual salary package commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Read more about SANBI's remuneration and benefits.

Application

Pease Note:

1. Applications forms must be accompanied by a letter motivating why the applicant should be favourably considered for the position and confirming that the minimum qualifications are met (applicants lacking evidence of relevant experience will not be considered).
2. A competency test will be conducted as part of the selection process.
3. Applicants must also provide the full names, address and telephone number and if possible e-mail address of at least three referees.
4. An application form must accompany the CV and motivational letter. Download Application Form.
5. Failure to submit the requested information may result in your application not being considered.

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.

Contact Mr Robert Petersen on 021 799 8636/8800 if further information required. Email completed application form, a motivational letter and concise CV to recruitmentct@sanbi.org.za or fax 021 762 3229. Postal applications are to be addressed to the Deputy Director: Human Resources, South African National Biodiversity Institute, Private Bag x7, Claremont, 7735.

Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. SANBI reserves the right not to fill this position. Candidates are expected to be available for selection interviews on a date and time as determined by SANBI. If no response has been received within 21 days of the closing date, candidates may assume that their applications were unsuccessful.

Please note that any emails sent to SANBI must be under 10MB in size.