Specialist Science Writer

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is seeking to appoint an enthusiastic, highly motivated, dedicated, professional and responsible individual to generate (write) appropriate scientific content and copy through engagement with SANBI staff, either as a result of participating in relevant meetings or from content already available.

The individual will also attend to the technical editing and proofreading of scientific content/copy to ensure consistency in style and narrative of the intended message according to national and international norms and standards, and as dictated by SANBI’s house style and the SANBI brand. The individual should be able to provide the required deliverables within set time frames.

The successful candidate must be in possession of a three (3) year National Diploma or Degree in Natural or Environmental Sciences or have completed tertiary course in science communication enhanced by a minimum of five (5) years’ relevant working experience in science communication/journalism.

The candidate should demonstrate excellent communication, writing and analytical skills, and show acceptance of responsibility as well as excellent interpersonal skills. The candidate must have knowledge of biological principles and terminology, social media systems and their operation, principles of science communication, and website design and content management. Proficiency in MS Word, MS PowerPoint, MS Access and MS Excel is a prerequisite, and the candidate should be in possession of a valid (unendorsed) driver’s licence.

Key responsibilities will include

• Scientific content generation and copy writing.
• Technical editing of scientific content/copy generated and proofreading of newly designed material (copy-editing).
• Coordinate and edit Branch Newsletters and website content.
• Research and academic services.

SANBI offers an annual salary of R356 289.00 and in addition, SANBI offers fringe benefits.

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.

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

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 Stephen Mahlangu on 012 843 5217 or, preferably, forward the completed application form, a letter, certified copies of qualification, 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 their applications unsuccessful.