SANBI Biological Invasions Graduate Placement Programme 2026-2028: Gain Experience in Biodiversity

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is offering unemployed South African graduates a chance to gain valuable experience through its Biological Invasions Graduate Placement Programme for 2026-2028. This 24-month programme provides training and professional development in a critical area of biodiversity management.

Application Closing Date: 21 August 2026
Location: Pretoria, Mbombela, Bloemfontein, Thohoyandou, East London, Cape Town and Durban, South Africa
Programme Duration: 24 months
Stipend: R6,233 or R8,050 per month
Minimum Qualification: National Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Honours, or MSc (depending on placement)
Opportunity Type: Graduate Placement Programme

About the SANBI Biological Invasions Graduate Placement Programme

This programme is designed to build skills and professional capacity within SANBI, focusing on the important work of managing biological invasions. It offers a 24-month workplace-based training experience. Successful graduates will gain practical skills, receive professional development, and benefit from technical mentorship.

The programme aims to support SANBI’s efforts in combating biological invasions and related biodiversity work across South Africa. No prior working experience is required, making it an excellent opportunity for recent graduates. The programme is funded by SANBI and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.

About SANBI

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is a national research institute responsible for managing South Africa’s rich biodiversity. SANBI plays a key role in conserving and understanding the country’s plant and animal life. The institute works to promote the sustainable use of biological resources.

SANBI manages a network of national botanical gardens and plays a significant role in environmental research and education. Their work is essential for maintaining ecological balance and supporting sustainable development in South Africa.

Available Graduate Placement Opportunities

SANBI is offering approximately 30 graduate placements across various fields. These include opportunities for Para-Ecologists, Communications and Advocacy, Project Administration and Coordination, and Biological Invasions Research. Applicants should select placements that match their qualifications and career interests.

Specific opportunities include:

• Para-Ecologists (X16 Positions): Requiring a National Diploma or Advanced Diploma in Nature Conservation, Horticulture, Environmental Management, or related biodiversity fields.
• Communications and Advocacy Placement (1 Position): Requiring a National Diploma or Advanced Diploma in Communications, Public Relations, or Marketing.
• Project Administration and Coordination Placement (1 Position): Requiring a National Diploma, Advanced Diploma, or Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Office Management, or Project Management.
• Biological Invasions Research Placements: Requiring Honours or MSc degrees in fields like Biological Invasions, Botany, Ecology, Zoology, Environmental Science, or GIS.
• Risk Analysis of Biological Invasions (2 Positions): Specifically requiring an MSc in Biological Invasions.

What the Programme Offers

Successful applicants will gain significant practical experience in biodiversity management and biological invasions. The programme provides structured training and professional development opportunities. Participants will receive technical mentorship from experienced professionals within SANBI.

Benefits include:

• 24 months of workplace experience.
• Professional development and training.
• Monthly stipend of R6,233 or R8,050.
• Exposure to critical biodiversity research and management.
• Opportunities to contribute to national conservation efforts.

Programme Duration and Location

The Graduate Placement Programme runs for a full 24 months, from 1 October 2026 to 30 September 2028. Placements are available across several locations in South Africa, including Pretoria, Mbombela, Bloemfontein, Thohoyandou, East London, Cape Town, and Durban.

Specific locations for Para-Ecologist placements include the Free State National Botanical Garden (Bloemfontein), DBE Offices (East London), Lowveld National Botanical Garden (Mbombela), Thohoyandou National Botanical Garden, Pretoria National Botanical Garden, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden (Cape Town), and the KZN Herbarium (Durban). Research placements are also available in these areas.

Minimum Requirements

To be eligible for this programme, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Be South African citizens.
• Hold the required qualification for the specific placement (National Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Honours, or MSc).
• Have a keen interest in biological invasions and biodiversity.
• Be enthusiastic and meticulous in their work.
• Demonstrate good analytical and research skills.
• Possess good verbal and written communication skills.
• Have basic computer skills.
• Be able to analyse scientific data where relevant.
• Have appropriate fieldwork exposure where relevant.
• No prior working experience is required.
• Not be enrolled for a higher degree during the 2026/2027 academic years.

Competencies Required

Successful candidates will likely need to demonstrate several key competencies to excel in their placements. These include strong analytical abilities for research and data interpretation. Good communication skills are essential for reporting and collaborating with colleagues.

Other important competencies include:

• Attention to detail.
• Willingness to learn and adapt.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Problem-solving skills.
• Professional attitude.

Who Should Apply?

This graduate placement programme is ideal for recent South African graduates who are passionate about biodiversity and environmental science. It is particularly suited for those interested in the field of biological invasions and seeking practical, hands-on experience. If you are eager to develop your career in conservation and research, this programme offers a solid foundation.

It is also a great opportunity for individuals looking to gain exposure to government-related conservation work and contribute to national environmental initiatives.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents for their application:

• Completed SANBI application form.
• A letter explaining the applicant’s skills and interests relevant to the chosen placement.
• A full Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Certified academic record or transcript.
• Certified copy of the applicant’s highest qualification.
• Certified copy of South African ID.
• One academic reference letter.

Ensure all documents are certified and ready before starting the online application.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online through the official SANBI application portal. Interested candidates should visit the SANBI careers page or the provided link to access the application form.

Click here to apply for the SANBI Biological Invasions Graduate Placement Programme 2026-2028

Applicants need to carefully select the placement that best matches their qualifications, field of study, skills, and career aspirations. Ensure all required documents are uploaded as instructed on the application form.

Important Notes

• The programme duration is 24 months, starting on 1 October 2026 and ending on 30 September 2028.
• No prior working experience is necessary.
• Applicants must be South African citizens.
• Stipends range from R6,233 to R8,050 per month, depending on the placement.
• Different qualification levels are required for different positions.
• Applicants cannot be enrolled for higher studies during the 2026/2027 academic period.
• A strong academic record and a driver’s licence with one year of experience are advantageous.
• Shortlisted candidates may be required to undergo a skills test.
• The exact number of available placements should be confirmed on the official application form, as initial figures may vary.

Closing Date

The application closing date for the SANBI Biological Invasions Graduate Placement Programme 2026-2028 is Friday, 21 August 2026. Applicants are urged to submit their applications well before this deadline to avoid any last-minute issues.

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