Description

• Initiation, management and implementation of national/international research and innovation projects within the area of responsibility of their research team.
• Providing leadership across specialised research fields and value chains.
• Managing all human resources aspects and communication within the area of responsibility of their research team (e.g. performance management, employee relations and wellness) and being custodians of change management.
• Identifying long-term budget requirements and being accountable for compiling and managing project budgets.
• Leading, developing, writing and negotiating project proposals with national/international funders for research within the area of specialty, and actively sourcing new national/international research opportunities and collaboration.
• Managing the quality of science of the research programme including setting and maintaining the quality of accepted scientific standards of excellence within the discipline.
• Provision of scientific leadership and guidance regarding specific research field as well as quality control of all scientific outputs (project proposals, scientific and popular publications, technical reports, and scientific presentations).
• Marketing research projects within the programme through the establishment of appropriate networks, partnerships and collaboration both nationally and internationally. This includes stakeholder engagements to build new and maintain existing relationships/partnerships.

Requirements

• PhD in Soil Science.
• At least 8-10 years’ post-PhD experience.
• At least 8-10 years’ experience in the management of research teams.
• Minimum of 20 peer-reviewed publications.
• Proven research and managerial track record in Soil Science.           
• Proven experience in attracting externally funded projects, and networking with national/international clients and stakeholders.
• Financial and personnel management, marketing and negotiation skills.
• Scientific leadership and mentoring skills.
• NRF rating would be an added advantage.
• Registration with a scientific or professional body would be an added advantage.
• Candidate should demonstrate ability to work in a multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural research team.
• Good communication skills (written and verbal).
• Computer literacy with proficiency in MS Office suite.
• Valid driver’s license (code 08/EB).

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 23 SEPTEMBER 2025