Scientist Specialist (Editor-In-Chief): African Journal of Marine Science at Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment

REQUIREMENTS:

• PhD degree in Marine (Estuarine/Coastal) Science, relevant to the mission of The African Journal of Marine Science (hereafter referred to as “the journal”) recognized by SAQA. A minimum of ten years relevant scientific experience post Bachelor of Science qualification, which must include scientific writing and formal editing. Compulsory registration with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) as a Professional Scientist. All shortlisted candidates, including the SMS, shall undertake two pre-entry assessments. One will be a practical exercise to determine a candidate’s suitability based on the post’s technical and generic requirements and the other must be an integrity (ethical conduct) assessment. One will be a practical exercise to determine a candidate’s suitability based on the post’s technical and generic requirements and the other must be an integrity (ethical conduct) assessment. Must be currently active in research, extensive record of published material and be recognized internationally for scientific standing. An excellent command of written English. Proven ability to adjudge the scientific merit of research output in most marine science disciplines. Experience and involvement in editing and publishing accredited scholarly journals. A demonstrated record of human capacity development and ability to mentor scientists.

DUTIES:

• Maintain and improve the Journal’s scientific quality and international penetration. Solicit submissions of high-quality manuscripts. Identify and encourage suitable, high-quality reviewers for submissions deemed appropriate for the Journal. Assess reports and make decisions on the fate of submitted manuscripts. Maintain a high standard in the editing process with respect to scientific content, as well as grammatical and stylistic precision. Work with the Editorial Assistant to manage submissions through Scholar One Manuscript Central, and the Journal’s online submission system. Monitor submission and rejection rates to ensure a steady flow of accepted, high-quality manuscripts to avoid publication backlogs. Ensure quality control through close cooperation with the publisher, including final scrutiny of proofs prior to printing. Ensure that a high-quality publisher is contracted to undertake the production, subscription management, and marketing of the Journal. Maintain the status of the Journal as one of South Africa’s leading media in terms of its ISI Impact Factor. Assist and motivate junior scientists within the Department to publish their research in the Journal and, where appropriate, in other reputable journals. Provide guidance in scientific writing, including courses and personal supervision. Ensure thepublication of one volume (consisting of four issues) per year. Prepare work plans and evaluate the performance of the Editorial Assistant. Manage the editorial budget. Maintain an annually updated list of publications and conferences attended by inhouse research staff. Oversee the production of the biennial Status of the South African Marine Fishery Resources report.

Deadline:9th March,2026