Senior Specialist: Climate Change Adaptation

The South African National Biodiversity Institute is looking for a highly motivated individual to develop and conceptualise new climate change adaptation research projects that can compete for funding to help SANBI expand its research impact, and contribute to human capital development, and provide outputs that enable SANBI to achieve its goals.

This position requires a degree in Biodiversity and Conservation Science, Life Sciences, Natural Sciences, Ecology, Biology, Botany or Zoology or equivalent and relevant qualification at NQF 7. A postgraduate qualification in Biodiversity and Conservation Science, Life Sciences, Natural Sciences, Ecology, Biology, Botany or Zoology or equivalent and relevant qualification at NQF 8 will be an added advantage.

This position also requires 8 years’ experience in a relevant field of biodiversity and conservation research, 4 years of which should be in applying for large research grants, supervising students and executing research projects. Scientific and report writing abilities, as well as a track record of international peer-reviewed publications demonstrating expertise on a national and international level are essential.

The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: advanced knowledge of biodiversity and conservation research, and climate change adaptation research; ability to conduct meta-analyses and represent data spatially; extensive experience in data inventory, data management, Geographic Information System, hydrological modelling, climate change modelling and Remote Sensing (RS) will be an added advantage; extensive experience in the implementation of relevant legislation, policies, procedures, processes, practices and frameworks is essential; advanced planning, organising, analytical, problem solving, and interpersonal skills; excellent communication (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).

The possession of a valid driver’s licence with at least one-year practical driving experience and a willingness to travel nationally and internationally is essential.

Key performance responsibilities include:

• Provide strategic direction and leadership in climate change adaptation research;
• Provide leadership in knowledge generation and dissemination in climate change adaptation research;
• Provide leadership in securing research funding and increasing collaboration opportunities for climate change adaptation research;
• Scientific contribution to biodiversity policy planning and management; and
• Contribute to human capital development and transformation matters of SANBI’s Climate Change & Land Degradation Unit through supervising students, interns and junior staff.

Please Note:
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 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 Tel: +27 (0)21 799 8878/8800 for any queries for purposes of clarity. Applications consisting of the completed application form, motivation letter, a concise CV, and certified qualifications are to 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 may consider their applications unsuccessful.