Requirements:

• Honours Degree (NQF Level8) in Bachelor of Science in one of the following: marine science, marine biology, marine ecology fisheries biology, fisheries science, quantitative science or a closely related field with a strong quantitative focus.
• A minimum of 3 years of relevant post-qualification experience in marine living resources research.
• Compulsory registration with South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) as a professional scientist.
• Knowledge of biology, ecology, life history strategies, population dynamics and quantitative assessment techniques of inshore living marine resources, in particular in relation to decapod crustaceans.
• Knowledge of crustacean fisheries; Research experience in crustacean fisheries and/or the biology, ecology, life-history, population dynamics or quantitative assessment of crustaceans.
• Computer skills in MS Office software (proven ability to utilize word processing and spreadsheet programmes); Proven ability to manipulate large data sets within a relational database environment (e.g. MS Access).
• Proven ability and experience to quantitatively analyse biological and environmental data and interpret results; Experience in conducting statistical analysis on and modelling of fisheries or fisheries related data.
• Formal courses in statistics, applied mathematics and/or experience in statistical methods for biological research.
• Ability and willingness to work at sea on small inshore research vessels as well as on commercial fishing vessels.
• Ability and willingness to spend extensive periods away from home while on field trips, or while attending courses and scientific symposia and meetings.
• Valid unendorsed South African driver’s license. 

Duties:

• The successful candidate will join the Crustacean Research Team, contributing to advancing knowledge in fisheries science with a specific focus on South Africa’s crustacean fisheries.
• Key responsibilities include conducting research to support the sustainable harvesting of crustacean fisheries.
• Providing scientific information on the biology and dynamics of crustacean populations.
• Provide scientific advice on the sustainable management and harvesting of crustacean fisheries.
• Participating in field trips, including working overtime as necessary.
• Compiling research reports, scientific publications, and data reports.
• Engaging with stakeholders at all levels across the crustacean fisheries sectors.
• Attending scientific meetings, workshops, and symposia at national, regional (Southern Africa), and international levels.
• Managing performance, including supervising and mentoring technical support staff.