Scientist: Compton Herbarium

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for highly motivated scientist to conduct taxonomic research on the South African flora in accordance with the SANBI Research Strategy; disseminate research findings through publications; curate herbarium collections for certain plant families; and provide information services for specialist families.

This position requires a Master’s degree in Botany or equivalent and relevant qualification with NQF 9. Postgraduate qualification or equivalent and relevant qualification at NQF 10 will be an added advantage. This position also requires 2 years’ experience in relevant field.

The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: proven experience of scientific publishing in the form of at least one relevant, full length first-authored paper in peer-reviewed journal;  comprehensive knowledge for legislation, policies, procedures, processes, practices, systems, and frameworks related to curation of herbarium collections for certain plant families and provision of information services for specialist families is essential; advanced planning, organizing, interpersonal, and problem solving skills; excellent communication skills (both verbal and written); excellent computer literacy and experience in the application of software tools including (Ms Word, MS Project, PowerPoint, Excel, Internet and Outlook) will be advantageous. 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:

• Design and carry out taxonomic research projects in line with SANBI’s strategy and priorities, and apply for external funding;
• Publish/disseminate results of research and scientific compilation;
• Conduct scientific curation of herbarium specimens; and
• Conduct plant identifications and answering enquiries related to specialist plant families.

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. 

Personal Information will be processed by SANBI for purposes of assessing your suitability for the advertised position. SANBI may also share your personal information including special personal information with service providers or third parties, both within the Republic of South Africa and in other jurisdictions, to carry out verification of qualifications and other necessary documents, background and reference checks, competency assessment tests, and criminal record checks.

In this regard, by virtue of your application, you acknowledge that SANBI’s authorised verification agent(s) and service providers will access your personal information including special personal information to conduct background screening, verification of qualifications and other necessary documents, reference checks, competency assessment tests, and criminal record checks. For more information, kindly refer to SANBI’s website.

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.

Applications consisting of the completed application form, motivation letter, a concise CV, and certified qualifications must be submitted via an e-mail to recruitmentct@sanbi.org.za.

Postal applications must be addressed to:

Deputy Director: Human Resources,
South African National Biodiversity Institute,
Private Bag X7,
Claremont,
7735

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 must consider their applications unsuccessful.

Enquiries:
Ms Kaashiefa Bassier
Tel: +27 (0)21 799 8878/8800