SANBI: Graduate Placement Programme

•  Apply before Aug 21, 2026 

Programme Overview

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) invites applications from suitably qualified and unemployed graduates to participate in the Biological Invasions Graduate Placement Programme, a twenty-four (24) month workplace-based training programme within the Directorate on Biodiversity Evidence (DBE).

The programme forms part of SANBI’s work to strengthen national capacity in the detection, monitoring, research and management of biological invasions and is funded through a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE). It aims to provide graduates with workplace experience, technical mentorship and professional development while contributing to the implementation of SANBIs Biological Invasions programme of work.

Successful candidates will be placed within multidisciplinary teams across DBE offices in the various botanical gardens, where they will work alongside experienced professionals. Participants will contribute to important programmes of work such as early detection and rapid response, invasive species risk analysis, biodiversity research, science communication and project coordination.

Placement Locations: 

• Pretoria National Botanical Garden,
• Lowveld National Botanical Garden,
• Thohoyandou National Botanical Garden,
• East London,
• Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden,
• Free State National Botanical Garden
• KZN Herbarium

Fields of study

SANBI invite applications for graduate placement opportunities in the following fields across various locations:

• Communications,
• Public Relations
• Marketing
• Nature Conservation,
• Horticulture,
• Environmental Management
• Biodiversity-related field
• Business Administration,
• Office Management
• Project Management
• Biological Invasions,
• Botany,
• Ecology,
• Zoology,
• Environmental Science
• GIS

NB. These internships are only available to South African citizens

Skills and Competencies

• Candidates must be enthusiastic, meticulous with good analytical and research skills and have a keen interest in biological invasions.
• Communication skills (verbal and written), fieldwork exposure, ability to analyse scientific data and computer skills.

Advantageous

• No prior working experience is required but a strong academic record at university will be an advantage.
• A driving license with at least one year’s driving experience will be an added advantage.
  
  

How to Apply

Required Documents

• A letter indicating skills and interests relevant to the internship;
• Full CV;
• Certified copies of academic record or transcript;
• Certified copies of highest qualification;
• Certified copy of ID;
• One letter of academic reference.

Apply Online for the SANBI: Graduate Placement Programme