Specialist Agricultural Scientist: Climate Change at Western Cape Government

Minimum Requirements    

• PhD in Agricultural or Natural Sciences; A minimum of 10 years relevant scientific experience after BSc qualification; Compulsory registration with SACNASP as a Professional Natural Scientist in Agricultural Sciences; A valid driving licence.

Recommendation    

• Experience in the following: Strategic research management and decision making at a specialist scientist level and in particular in the field of climate change and the agricultural sector in the Western Cape; Relationship building and collaboration at national, regional and international level; Mentoring and providing specialist support/advice to senior and junior scientists, technicians, colleagues, students (post-graduate); Technology transfer at all levels on a provincial, national and international level.

Key Performance Areas    

• Lead and coordinate scientific development in expert field of climate change; Scientific leadership; Technology transfer; Research and development; Human capital development; Administrative functions.

Competencies    

• Knowledge of the following: Agricultural research systems and important role players in the sector; Research programme and project management and its principles; Relevant legislation, policies, prescripts and procedures of government; Relevant software packages (MS Office); Ability to: Give strategic advice on climate change and the impact on the agricultural sector; Lead the climate change portfolio of the department; Provide sustainable and practical solutions against climate change at strategic level; Ability to draft research documentation and publish popular and scientific papers; Ability to communicate effectively; Competently interact with fellow scientists and policy-climate change makers at the highest levels; Study leader/Co-study leader of post-graduate students and mentor students in climate change related topics.