SANBI Biological Invasions Graduate Programme 2026-2028

South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) Graduate Placement Programme 2026-2028: Biological Invasions Opportunity

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for unemployed South African graduates to join its Biological Invasions Graduate Placement Programme for 2026-2028. This 24-month programme offers valuable workplace experience and training in biological invasions and biodiversity work.

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 to 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 is designed to build skills and professional capacity in the field of biological invasions and related biodiversity work. It provides graduates with a structured learning environment and practical experience. The goal is to develop talent within SANBI and contribute to its mission of conserving South Africa’s rich biodiversity.

The programme focuses on developing expertise in managing and understanding invasive species, which pose a significant threat to natural ecosystems. Participants will gain hands-on experience in research, conservation, and communication within this critical environmental sector.

About SANBI

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is a national research institute responsible for managing South Africa’s exceptionally rich biodiversity. SANBI’s mandate includes monitoring and managing biodiversity, promoting its sustainable use, and contributing to environmental education and public awareness. The institute plays a key role in conservation efforts across the country.

SANBI is involved in various research projects, botanical garden management, and policy development related to biodiversity. It works with government, academic institutions, and other stakeholders to achieve its conservation goals.

Available Graduate Placement Opportunities

SANBI is offering approximately 30 graduate placements across various fields. Applicants should check the official application form for the most current list of available positions. Some of the fields 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

What the Graduate Placement Programme Offers

Successful candidates will benefit from:

• 24 months of workplace experience.
• Structured training and professional development.
• Monthly stipends of R6,233 or R8,050, depending on the placement.
• Exposure to critical biodiversity and biological invasions work.
• Technical mentorship from experienced professionals.
• Opportunities to contribute to significant conservation projects.
• Development of practical skills in research, communication, and administration.

Programme Duration and Location

The programme runs for a full 24 months, starting on 1 October 2026 and concluding on 30 September 2028. Placements are available in several locations across South Africa, including:

• Pretoria, Gauteng
• Mbombela, Mpumalanga
• Bloemfontein, Free State
• Thohoyandou, Limpopo
• East London, Eastern Cape
• Cape Town, Western Cape
• Durban, KwaZulu-Natal

Minimum Requirements

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

• Be South African citizens.
• Hold the qualification required for the specific placement (National Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Honours, or MSc).
• Have a strong interest in biological invasions and biodiversity.
• Be enthusiastic, meticulous, and possess good analytical and research skills.
• Have good verbal and written communication skills.
• Possess computer literacy.
• Be able to analyse scientific data where relevant.
• Have appropriate fieldwork exposure where relevant.
• No prior working experience is required.
• Not be enrolled for a higher degree during the 2026/2027 academic years.

Competencies Required

The following competencies are desirable for applicants:

• Strong analytical and research abilities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Computer literacy.
• Ability to analyse scientific data.
• Fieldwork experience (where relevant).
• Meticulous attention to detail.
• Enthusiasm for biodiversity conservation.

Who Should Apply?

This graduate placement programme is ideal for recent South African graduates who are passionate about environmental conservation and wish to gain practical experience in biological invasions. If you have a relevant qualification and are eager to learn and contribute to important biodiversity projects, this opportunity is for you. It is particularly suited for those looking to kick-start their careers in conservation, environmental science, or related fields.

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 highest qualification.
• Certified copy of South African ID.
• One academic reference letter.

Ensure all documents are certified and ready before starting the online application.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online via the programme’s official application form.

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

When applying, select a placement that best matches your qualification level, field of study, skills, and career interests. Ensure all compulsory 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.
• Different qualification levels are required for different positions.
• Applicants cannot be enrolled for higher studies during the 2026/2027 academic years.
• One academic reference letter is a mandatory requirement.
• A strong academic record and a driver’s licence with one year of experience are advantageous.
• Shortlisted candidates may be required to complete a skills test.
• The exact number of placements should be confirmed on the official application form.
• Applications close on Friday, 21 August 2026.

Closing Date

The closing date for applications is Friday, 21 August 2026. Applicants are urged to submit their applications well before this deadline to avoid any last-minute issues.

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