Registrar of Genetically Modified Organisms-DAFF

POST 35/01: REGISTRAR: GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS ACT REF NO: 208/2010
Directorate: Bio-safety
SALARY: R378 456 per annum (all inclusive package)
CENTRE: Pretoria
REQUIREMENTS: Applicants must be in possession of a B.Sc. degree with Botany, Zoology, Biotechnology, Microbiology or Genetics as a major subject(s) (you are required to furnish a credit certificate and/or statement of results) and a M.Sc. degree (provide an abstract of your Master’s thesis) or a M. Tech degree with specialisation in Biological Sciences. Relevant experience in the principles of biotechnology and genetic modification. Knowledge on the status of Agricultural Biotechnology in South Africa and globally. The ability to interpret requirements and provisions of legislation, policies and other issues relating to Biosafety, including the Genetically Modified Organisms Act, 1997 (Act No. 15 of 1997) (GMO Act) and Cartagena Protocol on Bio-safety. Knowledge and understanding of other legislation which aims to promote conservation and sustainable use of genetic resources, with particular reference to the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998), the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004) and the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act, 1972 (Act No. 54 of 1972). Knowledge and understanding of the process of risk analysis and risk management in terms of the application of the GMO Act. Good communication skills (verbal and written). Good planning and organisational skills. Ability to work independently and under pressure. Computer literacy in MS Office software (Word, Excel and Access). The ability to compile documents such as submissions, letters, reports, recommendations and other line function documentation independently. A valid driver’s licence and the ability to drive. The candidate must be willing to travel extensively, nationally and internationally.
DUTIES: The incumbent will be responsible to manage all administrative processes related to the GMO Act to ensure compliance to provisions of the Act and other relevant policies, strategies, norms and standards. Facilitate knowledge and information management related to GMO’s on Bio-safety including the management of the National Bio-safety Clearing House (BCH). Provide administrative support to regulatory bodies appointed in terms of the Act, such as the Executive Council (EC) and Advisory Committee (AC).
Report on all regulated activities under the Act and execute instructions emanating from these regulatory bodies. Contribute towards policy development and legislative amendments as well as Ministerial, Cabinet and Parliamentary queries. Liaise with key stakeholders and clients on issues related to the GMO Act. Manage the office of the Registrar in terms of personnel, finance and organisational performance.
ENQUIRIES: Ms C. Arendse, Tel. 012 319 6199