Research Manager — South Africa

Bushveld Biodiversity Research Centre (BBRC) is seeking to appoint a dedicated and suitably qualified Research Supervisor / Research Coordinator to be based on site at a remote field research station in South Africa.

This position is focused on the academic supervision and coordination of field-based research activities, with a strong emphasis on student mentorship, data management, and research quality control. The successful candidate will play a central role in supporting undergraduate and postgraduate students, overseeing ongoing research projects, and ensuring the effective collection, management, and organisation of ecological data across multiple research themes.

The role requires a high level of independence, strong organisational skills, and a solid background in ecological or conservation research. The live-in position offers a unique opportunity to work closely with students and researchers in an immersive research environment.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The successful candidate will be responsible for the following:

• Providing academic supervision and mentorship to undergraduate, postgraduate, and international research students.
• Coordinating and overseeing field-based research activities and long-term monitoring projects.
• Supporting the development and implementation of research methodologies and data collection protocols.
• Ensuring accurate, consistent, and ethical data collection across all projects.
• Managing research databases, data storage systems, and data quality control.
• Assisting students with data processing, basic statistical analysis, and interpretation of results.
• Reviewing student research progress, reports, and presentations.
• Liaising with project managers, collaborators, and the BBRC leadership team.
• Supporting compliance with research permits, ethical guidelines, and institutional requirements.
• Contributing to a structured, professional, and academically supportive research environment at the station.

REQUIREMENTS

• A relevant academic background in ecology, zoology, botany, conservation biology, or a closely related field.
• Doctoral qualification (PhD) in a relevant discipline.
• Demonstrated field research experience, preferably in remote or off-grid environments.
• Strong interest in and commitment to conservation research, self-sufficiency, and remote living.
• Excellent communication, organisational, and coordination skills.
• South African residency.
• A valid South African driver’s license.