Seed Conservation Manager

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) requires the services of a self-motivated and innovative individual to develop, manage and maintain SANBI’s Seed Bank and coordinate seed conservation programs.

The successful candidate must be in possession of a three year Bachelor degree in Botany or closely related field.  A Master’s degree or Ph.D will be an added advantage. This qualification must be enhanced by minimum of 5 years’ working experience in seed physiology and seed conservation of which 2 years’ in administrative experience is essential. The incumbent must demonstrate leadership, planning and organising skills as well as investigation skills.

The successful candidate should have excellent spoken and written command of English and be experienced in MS Office. Possession of a valid Code B driver's license with at least one year's driving experience is compulsory.

The responsibilities include:

• Management and administration of the seed bank and seed storage facilities;
• Seed collection, conservation and collaboration (collection of priority species, seed processing, restoration etc);
• Curation of seed gene bank collections;
• Research and development (germination trials, storage trials, etc);
• People Management and Human capital development (training staff, undergraduates, graduates, supervise staff in seed conservation);
• Risk management of occupational health and safety act.

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 will be conducted as part of the selection process.

3) Applicants must also provide the full names, telephone numbers and 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 Siviwe Kotyi on (021) 799 8636/8800 or forward the completed application form, a letter and concise CV via e-mail to recruitmentct@sanbi.org.za or fax 086 589 9569.

Postal applications are to 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 may consider their applications unsuccessful.