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 is designed for individuals looking to build their careers in biodiversity and environmental management. Applications close on 21 August 2026.

Application Closing Date: 21 August 2026
Location: Pretoria, Mbombela, Bloemfontein, Thohoyandou, East London, Cape Town, and Durban, South Africa
Programme Duration: 24 months
Programme Period: 1 October 2026 – 30 September 2028
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 offers a 24-month workplace-based training opportunity. Its main goal is to strengthen the skills and professional capacity of graduates in the field of biological invasions and related biodiversity work. Participants will gain practical experience and receive technical mentorship.

The programme is funded through an agreement between SANBI and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment. It aims to support SANBI’s critical work in managing biological invasions across South Africa. No prior working experience is required to apply.

Approximately 30 graduate placements are available across various fields. Applicants should refer to the official SANBI application form for the most current list of vacancies.

About SANBI

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is a national research institute. It is responsible for managing South Africa’s rich biodiversity. SANBI plays a key role in understanding and conserving the country’s unique plant and animal life.

SANBI works to promote the sustainable use of biological resources. It also aims to ensure that biodiversity knowledge is accessible and used for the benefit of all South Africans. The institute is a leader in biodiversity research and conservation efforts.

Available Graduate Placement Opportunities

Opportunities are available for graduates in a range of fields. These include:

• Nature Conservation
• Horticulture
• Environmental Management
• Biodiversity-related studies
• Botany
• Ecology
• Zoology
• Environmental Science
• Biological Invasions
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
• Communications
• Public Relations
• Marketing
• Business Administration
• Office Management
• Project Management

Different qualification levels are required for different placements.

Para-Ecologists (X16 Positions)

These roles require a National Diploma or Advanced Diploma in fields such as Nature Conservation, Horticulture, Environmental Management, or other Biodiversity-related fields. The monthly stipend for these positions is R6,233. Placements are available in various locations including Bloemfontein, East London, Mbombela, Thohoyandou, Pretoria, Cape Town, and Durban.

Communications and Advocacy Placement

Located at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in Cape Town, this role requires a National Diploma or Advanced Diploma in Communications, Public Relations, or Marketing. The stipend is R6,233 per month. This placement focuses on supporting communication and advocacy activities within a biodiversity context.

Project Administration and Coordination Placement

This placement is based at the Pretoria National Botanical Garden. It requires a National Diploma, Advanced Diploma, or Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Office Management, Project Management, or related fields. The monthly stipend is R6,233.

Biological Invasions Research Placements

Several research positions are available for graduates with postgraduate qualifications. Depending on the specific role, applicants will need an Honours degree or an MSc in fields like Biological Invasions, Botany, Ecology, Zoology, Environmental Science, or GIS. The monthly stipend for these roles is R8,050. Research placements are located in East London, Bloemfontein, Thohoyandou, Pretoria, Cape Town, and Durban.

Risk Analysis of Biological Invasions

Two positions are available at the KZN Herbarium in Durban. These roles specifically require an MSc in Biological Invasions. The monthly stipend for these advanced research positions is R8,050.

What the Programme Offers

Successful applicants will gain significant benefits from this programme:

• Valuable workplace experience in biodiversity and biological invasions.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Technical mentorship from experienced professionals.
• Exposure to national biodiversity management.
• A monthly stipend to support living expenses.
• The chance to contribute to important conservation efforts.

Programme Duration and Location

The programme runs for a total of 24 months, starting on 1 October 2026 and concluding on 30 September 2028. Placements are located across various SANBI sites in South Africa, including Pretoria, Mbombela, Bloemfontein, Thohoyandou, East London, Cape Town, and Durban.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for the SANBI Biological Invasions Graduate Placement Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a South African citizen.
• Hold the required qualification for the specific placement they are applying for.
• Demonstrate a strong interest in biological invasions.
• Be enthusiastic and meticulous in their work.
• Possess good analytical and research skills.
• Have strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Be computer literate.
• Be able to analyse scientific data where relevant.
• Have relevant fieldwork exposure where applicable.

No prior working experience is required for any of the placements.

Competencies Required

Ideal candidates will demonstrate the following skills and qualities:

• Strong analytical abilities
• Good research skills
• Effective communication (verbal and written)
• Computer literacy
• Attention to detail
• Willingness to learn and adapt
• Professional attitude
• Ability to work under pressure
• Initiative and self-motivation

Who Should Apply?

This graduate placement programme is ideal for unemployed South African graduates who have completed a relevant National Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Honours, or MSc degree. It is suited for individuals passionate about biodiversity, environmental management, and conservation. If you are eager to gain practical experience and develop your professional skills in a supportive environment, this opportunity is for you.

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 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 compulsory documents are ready before starting the online application.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online through the official SANBI application portal.

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

Applicants should carefully select a placement that aligns with their qualification level, field of study, skills, and career interests. Ensure all required supporting documents are uploaded as instructed on the application form.

Important Notes

• The programme duration is 24 months, from 1 October 2026 to 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 must not be enrolled for a higher degree during the 2026/2027 academic years.
• One academic reference letter is a mandatory requirement.
• A strong academic record and a driver’s licence with at least one year of driving experience are advantageous.
• Shortlisted candidates may be required to undergo a skills test.
• Applicants should use the official application form to confirm the exact number of available vacancies.
• Late applications will not be considered.

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.

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