The KwaZulu-Natal Museum is one of the largest and leading heritage institutions in the country. It is dedicated to serving the people of South Africa by interpreting, collecting and exhibiting material evidence of the cultural and natural world, in order to increase knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the nation's rich heritage. In order to properly drive its strategic objectives, the KwaZulu-Natal Museum invites applicants for the following position:

CHIEF CURATOR / CURATOR - MOLLUSCA

Salary: Negotiable at level 12 (Chief Curator) or 10 (Curator) of Public Service Employees

Key Responsibilities:

• Generate new knowledge regarding the southern African marine molluscan fauna
• Publish original research papers in peer-reviewed scientific journals 
• Strengthen local partnerships and international research links
• Publication of field guides and popular articles 
• Generate research funding
• Augment KwaZulu-Natal Museum Mollusc collection
• Acquire generalised and specialised expertise relating to departmental collections
• Improve effectiveness of collections management 
• Contribute to the Museum's exhibitions and public outreach programmes
• Contribute to broader institutional goals

Additional Responsibilities for Chief Curator:

• Provide junior research staff with advice and guidance i.r.o. collections management and research projects
• Facilitate and supervise further training and postgraduate studies of research staff
• Interact with national and international research community, advise government departments, serve on scientific review and  evaluation panels (e.g. NRF) and contribute to professional societies

Requirements for Chief Curator:

• PhD in relevant field, with considerable experience, evidence of an active independent research programme, with at least five years' research experience, publication record and curatorial experience 
• Experience and proven record in attracting independent research funding
• Broad discipline-based knowledge is essential, plus a high level of expertise in the relevant research field, both practical and intellectual 
• Good writing, presentation, communication and organising skills
• Valid driver's license (Code EB)

Requirements for Curator:

• Minimum M.Sc. or a B.Sc. (Hons) in the relevant field 
• Understanding of modern systematic theory and practice 
• Some knowledge relating to the Phylum Mollusc, including taxonomy, systematics, biogeography and biology
• Good writing, presentation and communication skills
• Some knowledge of curation, collection management and databasing would be advantageous 
• Valid driver's license (Code EB)

Applications should be directed for the attention of: The Chief Human Resources Officer, and posted to Private Bag 9070, Pietermaritzburg, 3200; or hand delivered to 237 Jabu Ndlovu Street, Pietermaritzburg, 3201. The closing date for the submission of all applications is Friday, 27 May 2022 at 12:00pm. No late applications will be accepted. Please send a signed covering letter stating the position you are applying for, a detailed CV with a list of references and copies of identity document, driver's license where applicable, matric certificate and all other qualifications if any. Copies of the supporting documents (i.e. identity document, driver's license, matric certificate and all other qualifications) need not be certified. Shortlisted candidates will however be required to provide certified copies of required documents on the date of the interviews. Further enquiries regarding these positions may be directed to the Human Resources Officer, Mrs. Lindiwe Molefe, at 033 345 1404.