Scientific Curation Technician (12 month contract)

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) requires the services of an efficient and enthusiastic person with a knowledge of plants and herbarium curation to support the Natural Science Collections Facility (NSCF) by contributing to the scientific curation processes involved in the integration of herbarium specimens into the Bews Herbarium at University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in Pietermaritzburg.

The position requires the candidate to have at least a three year tertiary qualification in Botany enhanced by a minimum of two years’ of demonstrable herbarium working experience.

An MSc in botany would be an advantage, as would knowledge of BRAHMS software. The incumbent must demonstrate a good working knowledge of the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Flora and plant nomenclature, a high level of attention to detail and accuracy in plant specimen identification and data verification and be highly organised.

Key responsibilities 

• Verification of plant identities and curating of names
• Managing the specimen decontamination process for incoming specimens
• Assessment of rehabilitation needs for specimens and guidance to Curation Technician for processes required for upgrading of specimens
• Data verification and upgrading for incoming specimen data
• Integration of specimens into collection according to the system that is in used.

SANBI offers an all-inclusive annual salary of R410 601.33 p.a.

Please do not apply online for this position. Please send your application to: recruitmentpta@sanbi.org.za.

Please note

1) An application form must accompany the CV together with 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 skills test may be conducted as part of the selection process.

3) Applicants must also provide the full names, telephone numbers and if possible e-mail addresses of at least three referees.

4) Failure to submit the requested information may 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 currently be given to candidates from the designated groups.

Contact Mr. William Mahlangu on 012 843 5216 or, preferably, forward the completed application form (a cover letter, certified copies of qualifications, ID, drivers licence and concise CV via e-mail to recruitmentpta@sanbi.org.za or fax 012 843 5222. Postal applications are to be addressed to the 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 that their applications are unsuccessful.