Scientist: GMO Assessment

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a highly motivated individual to lead SANBI’s mandate on Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) monitoring and reporting.

This position requires a postgraduate degree in Agriculture/Natural Sciences/Ecology/Biology/Botany, or equivalent and relevant qualification at NQF level 9. A qualification at NQF level 10 will be an added advantage. This position also requires a minimum of 6 years’ relevant work experience in the field, 4 years’ of which should be in executing GMO science research projects.

The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: advanced knowledge of GMO monitoring and assessment research; experience in grant funding applications; student mentoring and supervision; experience in stakeholder coordination, and ability to develop and maintain partnerships; understanding of relevant legislation, policies, procedures, processes, practices related to GMOs; excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills; excellent computer literacy and experience in the application of software tools including MS Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Internet and Outlook and other specialized software in the field of practice. The candidate must be in possession of a valid driver’s license and must be willing to travel nationally and internationally.

Key Performance Responsibilities include:

• Provide leadership and strategic direction in projects, groups, and activities in relation to monitoring the impact of GMOs on the environment.
• Contribute to knowledge generation and dissemination through various publications in line with the research activities of the unit. The outputs associated with research activities are expected to have some level of impact within the subject area.
• Establish and maintain collaborations for research; and continuously source funding for own/students/interns projects/work on GMO impacts on the environment.
• Participate in and contribute to Biodiversity Policy, Planning and Management associated with GMO impacts on the environment. This includes leading a periodic assessment and report of the impacts of GMOs on biodiversity in South Africa; and
• Contribute to Human Capital Development in the field of impacts of GMOs on the environment.

Application procedure:
1) Portfolio of evidence 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 qualifications will not be considered).

2) A skills test will be conducted as part of the selection process.

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

4) Failure to submit the requested information and reference number will 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.

Contact Ms Kaashiefa Bassier on 021 7998800 or forward the completed portfolio of evidence, a motivational letter, concise CV and certified qualifications via e-mail to recruitmentct@sanbi.org.za. Postal applications are to be addressed to

Assistant Director: Human Resources
South African National Biodiversity Institute
P O Box X7
Claremont
7700.

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 application unsuccessful.