The National Zoological Gardens of South Africa (NZG) is a national research facility
reporting to the National Research Foundation (NRF). The following challenging
positions are available within the Centre for Wildlife Health and the Centre for
Conservation Science:
Position 1: Researcher Reproduction Biology
The NZG is seeking an outstanding wildlife / animal reproductive biologist to head up
the Reproductive Biology and Technologies Research Sub-programme. Current
research activities within the sub-programme include reproductive genetics,
diagnostic ultrasound, reproductive endocrinology, spermatology, sonography and
biomaterial banking. Two doctoral level students are currently being supervised.
We seek a candidate with scientific leadership abilities and a strong research track
record who will engage in projects, grant applications and student supervision. We
prefer candidates who are interested in advancing knowledge through research in the
area of wildlife reproductive technologies, directing the reproductive biology
laboratories, as well as providing technical and scientific support to the animal
collection. Activities should promote the sub-programme to national and international
recognition for reproductive biological science/technology development as well as
research excellence.
Requirements:

An appropriate PhD degree in Reproductive Biological Sciences or other
closely related field

Minimum of 2 years post-doctoral training in a biological science with
specialization in animal/wildlife reproduction or related science

At least 3 years of independent research experience post PhD qualification

Adequate experience and demonstrated success in graduate student training
and teaching generally

A record of research excellence in the area of reproductive biology as
measured by international standards

Sound knowledge of biodiversity conservation and experience in development
and application of new reproductive technologies.

Good supervisory, organizational, planning, communication, interpersonal
and administrative skills.

Demonstrated ability and success in extra-mural and competitive funding
procurement

Experience in or knowledge of the implementation of reproductive strategies
within the (wildlife) conservation field

Technical and scientific expertise in cellular biology would be an added
advantage
Enquiries can be directed to Prof Antoinette Kotze at [email protected] or (+27)
012 3392795. A full academic transcript showing all qualifications must be included in
your application.
Position 2: Researcher Comparative Genomics
The NZG has established a flagship research sub-programme in wildlife population
and conservation molecular genetics. We are seeking a well-qualified, experienced,
hard-working, enthusiastic and motivated individual to be appointed as a researcher
in Comparative Genomics. The candidate should demonstrate scientific leadership
and an interest in the area of molecular genetics and informatics with a research
track record and ability to engage in projects, grant applications and student
supervision.
Requirements:
 PhD in molecular biology, genetics, bioinformatics or related field

At least 3 years’ research experience in genetics, molecular biology,
bioinformatics research or related field

Good working knowledge of molecular techniques and analysis of complex
datasets

Adequate experience and demonstrated success in graduate student training
and teaching generally

Good supervisory, organizational, planning, communication, interpersonal
and administrative skills.

Demonstrated ability and success in extra-mural and competitive funding
procurement
Enquiries can be directed to Human Resources at (+27) 12 339 2700 orDr D. Dalton
[email protected] or +27 12 328 3265 Ext 234. A full academic transcript showing all
qualifications must be included in your application.
Position 3: Researcher Veterinary Parasitology
The NZG would like to fill this position with a dynamic, enthusiastic and motivated
individual who will be able to lead the parasitological research sub-programme
investigating parasite-host-relations of captive and free-ranging wildlife. The
candidate should demonstrate some knowledge of parasite fauna of endangered wild
animal species and be able to examine these on an individual and population scale.
A sound knowledge of interdisciplinary approaches covering the prevalence,
epidemiology, vectors, causes of death, diseases, and environmental toxins will be
an advantage. A focus on Ectoparasitology, Entomology, Conventional and
Serological Diagnosis, Molecular Diagnostics of Pathogens of veterinary importance,
Proteomics, Bioinformatics and Genomics will be a priority. The candidate should be
willing to do routine examinations to investigate the prevalence of parasites,
diagnosis, epidemiology and genetic variation. a Basic understanding of various
diagnostic techniques to analyse data and investigate genetic diversity and
phylogenetic relationships inter alia microscopy, serology (cELISA, IFA), RLB, LAMP,
PCR, Real-Time PCR, Bioinformatics tools and genome sequencing will be an added
advantage.
Requirements:

PhD degree in Veterinary Parasitology, molecular genetics or related field

Minimum of 3 years post-doctoral training in a biological science with
specialization in animal/wildlife parasitology or related science

At least 2 years of independent research experience post PhD qualification

Adequate experience and demonstrated success in graduate student training
and teaching generally

Sound knowledge of biodiversity conservation and experience in development
and application of new parasitology technologies.

Good supervisory, organizational, planning, communication, interpersonal
and administrative skills.

Demonstrated ability and success in extra-mural and competitive funding
procurement

Technical and scientific expertise in cellular biology would be an added
advantage
Enquiries can be directed to Prof Antoinette Kotze at [email protected] or (+27)
012 3392795. A full academic transcript showing all qualifications must be included in
your application.
Interested parties are requested to send applications (with a cover letter, full
CV and qualifications) to the address below. Short-listed candidates who are
invited to an interview will be expected to demonstrate proof of the above Key
Competencies and Minimum Requirements.
Applications should be forwarded to:
Email: [email protected]
Or
HR Practitioner: Talent Management
P.O Box 754
PRETORIA
0001
Or Hand delivered to: 232 Corner Paul Kruger & Boom Streets, Pretoria, National
Zoological Gardens of S.A
CLOSING DATE: 27 February 2015, 16H30
The National Zoological Gardens of South Africa is committed to employment equity
and redress. The NZG reserves the right not to fill this position.