Deputy Director: National Biodiversity Biobank Curation (re-advertisement)

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a highly motivated individual to develop, lead and manage a national biodiversity DNA biobank. t. This post is funded through the Biodiversity Biobanks South Africa (BBSA), which falls under the South African Research Infrastructure Roadmap of the Department of Science & Innovation. As part of the BBSA, a biodiversity DNA biobank is being established at the National Herbarium in Pretoria. The biobank will focus mainly on indigenous plants, but also aims to serve as a repository for DNA samples and extracts for microbes and animals.

This position requires an Honours Degree in Life Sciences, Natural Sciences, Ecology, Biology, Botany, or equivalent qualification with NQF 7. A Postgraduate degree or equivalent degree at NQF 8 will be an added advantage. 8 years’ experience in 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: in-depth knowledge of biodiversity biobank collections management, in-depth understanding of relevant fields of biodiversity science, knowledge about legislation pertaining to biodiversity biobanking, knowledge of the management of organisational finance, project management knowledge and skills, knowledge about Government HR, procurement and financial management policies, 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:

• Lead the development and manage a national biodiversity DNA biobank
• Manage and coordinate the provision of biobank services, including serving as a repository and providing samples for research purposes
• Maintenance of facilities and equipment in the biobank, including the automated / robotics freezer system
• Provide strategic direction and leadership for national biodiversity biobanks, including expansion of the holdings
• Manage and monitor project and progress

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.