Deputy Director: Biodiversity Biobanks (re-advertisement)

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a highly motivated individual to lead the development and implementation of projects to contribute to the achievement of targets and deliverables for the Biodiversity Biobanks South Africa (BBSA),  which is one of the South African Research Infrastructure Roadmap projects funded by the Department of Science & Innovation and hosted by SANBI. The BBSA is a network of institutions that hold microbial cultures, DNA extracts, seed and other forms of genebanks for research, conservation and development purposes.

This position requires a degree in Life Sciences, Biology, Botany, Zoology, Microbiology, Biotechnology or equivalent and qualification with NQF 7. A post graduate qualification in Life Sciences, Biology, Botany, Zoology, Microbiology, Biotechnology or equivalent and qualification with NQF 8 or above will be an added advantage. This position also requires 8 years’ experience in a relevant field, 4 years of which should be in first line management position(s).

The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: advanced project management skills, including managing projects across a network of partners; comprehensive knowledge for application of scientific methodologies (design, implement research, scientific analysis and write up); extensive experience in stakeholder engagement and relationship management; advanced experience in the implementation and compliance to relevant legislation, policies, procedures, processes, and regulatory frameworks pertaining to genetic resources nationally and globally; systemic visualisation of various projects entailing a programme; in-depth understanding of national and global biodiversity biobanking initiatives and associated research; attention to detail in dealing with budgeting, financial management and reporting; advanced knowledge for planning and organising, and statistical report-writing skills; in-depth organisational, analytical, and problem solving skills; excellent communication (both verbal and written including of scientific outputs) and interpersonal skills; excellent computer literacy and experience in the application of software tools including Ms Word, MS Project, PowerPoint, Excel, Internet and Outlook. The possession of a valid driver’s licence with at least one-year practical driving experience and a willingness to travel is essential.

Key Performance Responsibilities include:

• Assess and monitor implementation of national policies and standards in biodiversity biobanks participating in the BBSA;
• Conduct studies on sample holdings in participating biobanks, identify gaps and analyse trends in the use of samples;
• Increase profile and impact of the BBSA;
• Input into BBSA strategy, planning and reporting; and
• Conduct research relevant to biodiversity biobanks.

Application procedure:
1) An application form must accompany the CV together with a letter motivating why the applicant should be favourably considered for this position, and certified qualifications confirming that the minimum qualifications are met (applicants lacking evidence of meeting minimum qualifications and 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, addresses and telephone numbers and if possible e-mail addresses of at least three referees.

4) Failure to submit the requested information and reference number shall result in your application not being considered.

Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. SANBI reserves the right not to fill this position. All applications will be considered with the understanding that, in terms of the SANBI Employment Equity Plan, preference will be given to candidates from the designated groups.

Contact Mr Vusumuzi Mncwango on 082 737 2125 for any queries for purposes of clarity. Applications consisting of the completed application form, motivation letter, a concise CV, and certified qualifications are to be submitted via an e-mail to recruitmentpta@sanbi.org.za Postal applications must be addressed to:

Assistant Director: Human Resources
South African National Biodiversity Institute
Private Bag X101
Pretoria
0001.

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 30 days of the closing date, candidates may consider their applications unsuccessful.