Scientist Production Grade A: Aquaculture at Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs

MINIMUM - COMPETENCIES

• Theoretical and practical knowledge of aquaculture production systems, inland fisheries, breeding and aquatic animal health and welfare. Proven ability to carry out quantitative analysis and write peer-reviewed scientific publications and scientific reviews. Familiar with software applications and statistical analysis of data.
• Knowledge of animal ethics as it relates to animal and applied aquaculture research. Practical aquaculture breeding, aquatic animal handling and biosecurity skills. Good communication, analytical and problem solving and analysis skills. Must be computer literate (MS Word, MS Excel and MS Power Point).  Must have a valid driver’s licence.

REQUIREMENTS

• Grade 12 plus a Master’s (MSc) Degree (NQF Level 9) in Aquaculture/ Ichthyology or qualification within the related field as recognised by SAQA.
• At least four (4) years’ post-qualification experience in aquaculture research and compulsory registration with the SACNASP as a Professional Natural Scientist.

DUTIES

• Undertake basic and applied aquaculture and inland fisheries research on priority species in line with the Aquaculture Research. Provide information on new technologies and research developments through continuous professional development.
• Perform scientific analysis and regulatory functions. Gather, interpret and statistically evaluate empirical and experimental data to inform policy and practice. Compile detailed technical and scientific reports, proposals, concept notes and policy briefs for departmental identity and consolidate sectoral needs for methodologies and decision-support tools in inland aquaculture and inland fisheries.
• Monitor and evaluate aquaculture research programmes and demonstrate activities. Support with optimizing breeding and hatchery programmes. Maintain effective stakeholder and client relationships to promote adoption of best practices and evidence-based approaches.
• Mentor, train and supervise candidate scientists, interns, students and aquaculture technicians and provide satructured learning and development opportunities to support growth of technical capacity in the sector.