South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is opening a graduate placement in Biological Invasions, and the deadline is only a few days away. If you are a recent graduate looking for hands‑on experience, apply before 21 August 2026.
What the opportunity is
SANBI is running a 24‑month, workplace‑based graduate programme called the Biological Invasions Graduate Placement Programme 2026–2028. The placement period runs from 1 October 2026 to 30 September 2028. You will work at one of the following locations:
- Pretoria
- Mbombela (Lowveld National Botanical Garden)
- Bloemfontein (Free State National Botanical Garden)
- Thohoyandou (National Botanical Garden)
- East London (DBE Offices, Vincent)
- Cape Town (Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden)
- Durban (KZN Herbarium)
Stipends are paid monthly: R6 233 for most placements and R8 050 for research‑focused roles.
Who can apply – eligibility
- South African citizen
- Hold the qualification required for the specific placement (see details below)
- No previous work experience needed
- Not enrolled in a higher degree during the 2026/2027 academic years
- Good analytical, written and verbal communication skills
- Basic computer skills and, where relevant, fieldwork experience
Placement types and required qualifications
Para‑Ecologist (16 positions)
National Diploma or Advanced Diploma in Nature Conservation, Horticulture, Environmental Management or related biodiversity fields.
Monthly stipend: R6 233.
| Location | Posts |
|---|---|
| Bloemfontein – Free State National Botanical Garden | 2 |
| East London – DBE Offices, Vincent | 2 |
| Mbombela – Lowveld National Botanical Garden | 3 |
| Thohoyandou – National Botanical Garden | 2 |
| Pretoria – National Botanical Garden | 3 |
| Cape Town – Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden | 2 |
| Durban – KZN Herbarium | 2 |
Communications & Advocacy (1 position)
Location: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Cape Town.
Required: National Diploma or Advanced Diploma in Communications, Public Relations or Marketing.
Stipend: R6 233 per month.
Project Administration & Coordination (1 position)
Location: Pretoria National Botanical Garden.
Required: National Diploma, Advanced Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Office Management, Project Management or a related field.
Stipend: R6 233 per month.
Biological Invasions Research (postgraduate)
Open to candidates with Honours or MSc in Biological Invasions, Botany, Ecology, Zoology, Environmental Science, GIS or related subjects.
Stipend: R8 050 per month.
Research sites include East London, Bloemfontein, Thohoyandou, Pretoria, Cape Town and Durban.
Risk Analysis of Biological Invasions (2 positions)
Location: KZN Herbarium, Durban.
Required: MSc in Biological Invasions (specific qualification).
Stipend: R8 050 per month.
What you will gain
- Practical experience in biodiversity and invasive‑species management
- Professional mentorship from senior SANBI staff
- Technical skills such as GIS, field data collection and risk analysis
- Networking opportunities across South Africa’s major botanical gardens
- A competitive stipend that supports you while you learn
How to apply – step by step
- Gather the required documents:
- Completed online application form
- Cover letter explaining your interest and relevant skills
- Full CV
- Certified copy of your highest qualification
- Certified academic transcript
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- One academic reference letter (not just contact details)
- Visit the official SANBI application page: SANBI Biological Invasions Graduate Placement Programme 2026–2028.
- Choose the placement that matches your qualification, field of study and career interest.
- Upload all required files exactly as instructed on the form.
- Review your answers, then submit before the deadline.
Tips to improve your chances
- Read the official form carefully – placement numbers may differ from the summary above.
- Tailor your cover letter to the specific role you are applying for.
- Highlight any strong academic results; a high GPA is an advantage.
- If you have a driver’s licence with at least one year’s experience, mention it – it is viewed favourably.
- Proofread all documents; a clean CV and error‑free cover letter create a good first impression.
- Prepare for a possible skills test by reviewing basic GIS, data analysis and field‑work methods.
Next steps
The programme starts on 1 October 2026 and runs for two years. If you meet the eligibility criteria, gather your documents now and submit your application before the 21 August 2026 deadline.
For any questions about the application process, email René du Toit at r.dutoit@sanbi.org.za. Remember, this email is for enquiries only; all applications must be made through the online form.
Take this chance to build a solid foundation in biodiversity science. Apply today and take the first step toward a rewarding career with SANBI.
