Scientist Production: Palaentology at Eastern Cape Department: Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture

REQUIREMENTS :

• National Senior Certificate plus a master’s degree in Paleontology / Geology / Geo Science/Zoology, specializing in Eastern Cape Palaeoscience. Compulsory registration with SACNASP as a professional Natural Scientist. A minimum of three (3) years relevant experience in a museum natural science environment. Knowledge of curating paleontology collections, research, fieldwork, fossil preparation and publication of scientific papers. Ability to recognise diagnostic characteristics on which classification systems are based. Computer knowledge, laboratory protocol, word computer packages, paleontology, and financial management. Program and project management. Communication skills, Report writing skills, People management skills, Customer or client orientated approach. Knowledge of public service regulations, legislations/ policies/ prescripts and procedures. Knowledge of Eastern Cape Museum Act. National Heritage Act, Operational standards for natural science museum, South African National Standards for Museums. A valid driving licence. 

DUTIES :

• Identify, name and classify fossil species based on morphology, and evolutionary relationships. Conduct field surveys and excavations, perform laboratory analysis (fossil preparation and microscopic analysis), curate paleontology collections, and publish research to support knowledge generation and understanding of changing ecosystems through time, and heritage management. Develop and implement methodologies, policies, systems and procedures. Identify and consolidate needs for methodologies, policies, systems and procedures. Identify gaps and develop appropriate interventions. Monitor and evaluate program performance. Perform scientific functions that require interpretation in the absence of an established framework. Provide scientific support and advice. Develop working relations with client base. Create public awareness of the science system. Provide scientific data, information and advice as requested. Review scientific publications.
• To perform scientific analysis and regulatory functions. Conduct analysis of scientific data. Gather and interpret data, evaluate results and disseminate information, through both scientific publications and public outreach initiatives. Apply appropriate scientific models to generate information and knowledge. Formulate proposals and compile reports. Develop and customize models and techniques. Conduct research and development. Continuous professional development to keep up with new technologies, procedures and knowledge. Conduct basic and applied research. Research/literature studies to improve expertise. Publicly present research findings. Liaise with relevant bodies/councils on science-related matters. Manage human capital development. Mentor, train and develop candidate scientists and others to promote skills/knowledge transfer and adherence to sound scientific principles and code of practice. Supervise scientific work processes. Manage performance and development.