SANBI Biological Invasions Graduate Placement Programme 2026-2028: Gain Experience in Biodiversity

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is offering unemployed South African graduates a chance to gain valuable experience through its Biological Invasions Graduate Placement Programme for 2026-2028. This 24-month programme provides training and professional development in a critical area of biodiversity management. Applications are open to graduates with relevant qualifications and an interest in environmental science.

Application Closing Date: 21 August 2026
Location: Pretoria, Mbombela, Bloemfontein, Thohoyandou, East London, Cape Town and Durban, South Africa
Programme Duration: 24 months
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 within SANBI, focusing on the important work of managing biological invasions. It offers a structured learning environment where graduates can develop practical expertise. The programme runs from 1 October 2026 to 30 September 2028, providing a solid two-year period for growth.

Successful participants will gain hands-on workplace experience, receive professional development, and benefit from technical mentorship. This opportunity is ideal for those looking to start their careers in conservation and environmental management. No prior working experience is required, making it accessible to recent graduates.

The programme is funded through an agreement between SANBI and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment. Approximately 30 graduate placements are available across various locations in South Africa.

About SANBI

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is a national research institute responsible for managing South Africa’s rich biodiversity. SANBI plays a key role in understanding and conserving the country’s plant and animal life. The institute is involved in research, conservation efforts, and public education.

SANBI manages national botanical gardens, promotes sustainable use of biodiversity, and works to address threats like invasive species. Their work is crucial for maintaining ecological balance and supporting environmental sustainability in South Africa.

Available Graduate Placement Opportunities

Opportunities are available for graduates in a range of fields related to biodiversity and environmental management. Applicants should choose placements that match their specific qualifications and interests.

• Para-Ecologists: National Diploma or Advanced Diploma in Nature Conservation, Horticulture, Environmental Management, or related biodiversity fields.
• Communications and Advocacy: National Diploma or Advanced Diploma in Communications, Public Relations, or Marketing.
• Project Administration and Coordination: National Diploma, Advanced Diploma, or Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Office Management, Project Management, or related fields.
• Biological Invasions Research: Honours or MSc in Biological Invasions, Botany, Ecology, Zoology, Environmental Science, GIS, or related disciplines.
• Risk Analysis of Biological Invasions: MSc in Biological Invasions.

What the Programme Offers

This graduate placement programme offers significant benefits to successful applicants, helping them launch their careers.

• Workplace Experience: Gain practical experience in a professional conservation and research environment.
• Structured Training: Participate in a structured learning programme focused on biological invasions.
• Monthly Stipend: Receive a monthly stipend of R6,233 or R8,050, depending on the placement.
• Professional Development: Access opportunities for professional growth and skill enhancement.
• Technical Mentorship: Benefit from guidance and support from experienced professionals in the field.
• Career Development: Lay a strong foundation for a career in biodiversity management and environmental science.

Programme Duration and Location

The Biological Invasions Graduate Placement Programme runs for a full 24 months, from 1 October 2026 to 30 September 2028. This extended duration allows for in-depth learning and contribution to ongoing projects.

Placements are available across several locations in South Africa, including:

• Pretoria
• Mbombela
• Bloemfontein
• Thohoyandou
• East London
• Cape Town
• Durban

Specific placement locations are detailed within the application form.

Minimum Requirements

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

• Be a South African citizen.
• Hold the required qualification for the specific placement (National Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Honours, or MSc).
• Have a strong interest in biological invasions and biodiversity.
• Demonstrate good analytical and research skills.
• Possess good verbal and written communication skills.
• Have basic computer skills.
• Be able to analyse scientific data where relevant.
• Have appropriate fieldwork exposure where relevant.
• Not be enrolled for a higher degree during the 2026/2027 academic years.

No prior working experience is required for this programme.

Competencies Required

SANBI seeks enthusiastic and meticulous individuals who can contribute effectively to their team. The following competencies are important:

• Meticulous attention to detail.
• Strong analytical thinking.
• Effective verbal communication.
• Clear written communication.
• Proficiency in computer use.
• Ability to analyse scientific data.
• Willingness to engage in fieldwork.

Who Should Apply?

This graduate placement programme is ideal for unemployed South African graduates who have completed a National Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Honours, or MSc in fields related to conservation, environmental science, or biodiversity. It is particularly suited for individuals eager to gain practical experience in managing biological invasions and contributing to biodiversity conservation efforts. If you are passionate about the environment and looking for a structured entry into this field, this programme offers a great starting point.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents for their application:

• Completed application form.
• A letter explaining the applicant’s skills and interests relevant to the placement.
• 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 compulsory documents are ready before starting the online application.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online via the official SANBI application form.

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

Applicants should carefully select a placement that aligns with their qualification level, field of study, skills, and career interests. Ensure all required supporting documents are uploaded as instructed on the application form.

Important Notes

• The programme duration is 24 months, running 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, depending on the specific placement.
• Different qualification levels are required for different positions.
• Applicants cannot be enrolled for a higher degree during the 2026/2027 academic period.
• One academic reference letter is a mandatory requirement.
• A strong academic record and a driver’s licence with at least one year of experience are considered advantageous.
• Shortlisted candidates may be required to complete a skills test.
• The exact number of available placements should be confirmed on the official application form, as initial information may vary.

Closing Date

The application closing date for the SANBI Biological Invasions Graduate Placement Programme 2026-2028 is Friday, 21 August 2026. Applicants are urged to submit their complete applications well before this deadline.

SHARE THIS POST WITH OTHERS.