Manager: Science Education Unit (SAASTA)

The National Research Foundation (NRF) is an autonomous science council that supports and promotes research through funding, human resource development and by providing the necessary research and development in all fields of science and technology, including indigenous knowledge. The NRF strives for world-class research, transformed society and sustainable environment. The NRF seeks to appoint a qualified and dynamic individual in the following key position:

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Manager: Science Education Unit (SAASTA)

The National Research Foundation (NRF) supports and promotes research and human capital development through funding, the provision of National Research Facilities and science outreach platforms and programmes to the broader community in all fields of science and technology, including natural science, engineering, social science and humanities.

The South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA) seeks to appoint a Science Education Manager who will advance, stimulate interest in and create awareness of science and technology through appropriate and relevant education and outreach programmes. He/she will be expected to: • Strategically define new and innovative SET education initiatives across the NRF infrastructure, with a view to informing and supporting current reforms in science, technology and mathematics education • Increase SET career awareness • Enhance the reconstruction of the broader relationship between science and society • Develop sound links, relationships and synergies among key education stakeholders at both national and provincial level • Prepare and manage a unit budget, including external contract management, according to PFMA principles • Manage unit staff • Effectively communicate and market education initiatives.

Requirements: • A postgraduate degree in Science or Mathematics Education • Experience in a pre-tertiary and/or tertiary environment • Sound understanding of current science, mathematics and technology education issues and policies in the country • Leadership and strategic thinking skills for a fast-paced delivery environment • Financial and human resource management skills • Excellent verbal and written communication skills • Good interpersonal skills and the ability to work as a member of a diverse team of professionals • Extensive project management experience in a multiple project and grant-funding environment.

The NRF offers a challenging career and competitive remuneration package which is commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Applicants should submit a detailed CV that includes names and contact details of their referees as well as a covering letter stating reasons for applying. These should be sent to the Human Resources Department at the National Research Foundation, PO Box 2600, Pretoria 0001 or fax: (012) 481-4008 or alternatively apply online and must reach us by no later than 5 May 2012.

Correspondence will be conducted with short-listed candidates only.

The National Research Foundation is committed to employment equity and redress.