Deputy Director: Project Coordination 1 – Foundational Biodiversity Information Programme

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(Candidates who have already applied should not re-apply as their applications will still be considered)

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is seeking to appoint an enthusiastic, highly-motivated, dedicated, professional and responsible individual to provide efficient and effective management and coordination for implementation of the Foundational Biodiversity Information Programme (FBIP). The FBIP is funded by the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), and is jointly managed with the National Research Foundation (NRF) with the purpose to support the generation and dissemination of foundational biodiversity knowledge (i.e. discovery, description, and identification of species, biodiversity surveys and, species occurrence data, population abundance, and phylogenetic / DNA information, including DNA barcoding).This type of information is often referred to as fundamental or foundational because it forms the basis of so many other aspects of biodiversity research and decision-making to ensure sustainable livelihoods and use of biodiversity in South Africa. The position includes delivery of strategic foundational biodiversity data in consultation with the FBIP Steering Committee and the Chief Director Foundational Biodiversity Science by managing and co-ordinating regular research funding programmes in collaboration with the NRF, directed funding for human capacity development and transformation, communication programmes, data bases and systems, and managing personnel, budgets and procurement processes.

The successful candidate must be in possession of a degree or equivalent qualification in Life Sciences, Natural Sciences, Biology at NQF level 7. Relevant postgraduate degree or equivalent qualification at NQF level 8 and above will be an added advantage. This position also requires a minimum of 8 years of work experience in a relevant field (research related to taxonomy / systematics, DNA barcoding / sequencing, biodiversity surveys), 4 years of which should be in a biological science research project coordination and supervisory role. In-depth understanding of the national science research and postgraduate education system, proficiency in MS Office, PowerPoint and Excel is essential. A code 8 drivers licence is a requirement.

Key Responsibilities Will Include

• Manage and drive the implementation of the FBIP. This includes developing and proposing strategic and tactical adjustments to FBIP approaches and implementing these after endorsement by the FBIP Steering Committee, SANBI Senior management, NRF, and the Department of Science and Innovation.
• Provide secretariat services to the FBIP Steering Committee.
• Organise and host the annual FBIP Forums and events.
• Develop and manage a monitoring system for FBIP funded grant outputs including publications, postgraduate students and data sets generated and made accessible.
• Manage, integrate and coordinate foundational biodiversity data generation and national research initiatives by managing national processes for biodiversity data generation.
• Collaborate with the NRF in co-ordinating FBIP research grant calls, research proposal review processes and manage FBIP related capacity building initiatives.
• Develop appropriate communication materials to promote the FBIP activities and programme impacts.
• Manage the operational budget in line with the agreed plan, procurement and report on expenditure and performance (quarterly and annual) to the NRF, Department of Science and Technology and SANBI.

Please Note

• Only online applications will be accepted accompanied by a 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).
• A competency test will be conducted as part of the selection process.
• Applicants must also provide the full names, addresses and telephone numbers and if possible e-mail addresses of at least three referees.
• 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 SANBIs 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 SANBIs 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