Communications and Relationship Manager

Communications and Relationship Manager

Payclass 10 (Fixed Term Contract T2 – 3 years)

BIOGRIP

Faculty of Science

The Biogeochemistry Research Infrastructure Platform (BIOGRIP) was established in 2019 in terms of the South African Research Infrastructure Roadmap, a high-level research strategy of the national government Department of Science and Innovation. ‘Biogeochemistry’ is the study of how biological, geological, chemical and physical processes interact to shape natural environments over time and space. It encompasses a range of interdisciplinary research areas, from the origins and diversification of life to the response of natural systems to environmental (including anthropogenic) change. This 15-year initiative will drive biogeochemical knowledge creation and exploitation by (1) providing technical capacity, training and scientific leadership in biogeochemical research (2) developing world-class analytical facilities and (3) improving monitoring of key biogeochemical environmental variables through the generation and compilation of statistically meaningful datasets. BIOGRIP’s activities will contribute to national goals of access to clean water and sanitation, management of soil fertility and marine ecosystem productivity, and good health and well-being.

BIOGRIP comprises four research nodes, based at the Universities of Cape Town (focusing on isotope biogeochemistry), Stellenbosch (water and soil biogeochemistry), Free State (mineral biogeochemistry) and North-West (atmospheric biogeochemistry), with the administrative hub located at UCT. The Hub Communications and Relationship Manager will be based at UCT and will report to the BIOGRIP Director. The Hub Communications and Relationship Manager will (1) maintain regular communications across a variety of platforms, (2) create content for online and print media, including reports, websites, podcasts and video, social media and in person presentations, (3) showcase BIOGRIP's work through events such as workshops, training, conferences and open days, (4) build relationships primarily with external stakeholders but also within BIOGRIP, including public and private organisations and individuals, and be the face of the organisation.

We therefore invite applications for a 3-year contract position at the PC10 level for appointment as soon as possible.

Requirements for the position:

• A MSc in science or M. engineering, or similar degree, preferably in natural or applied sciences

• At least 3 years work experience with experience in science communications and relationship management


• An understanding of biogeochemistry through studies or work


• An ability to write clearly and simplify complex information to different target audiences


• An ability to make science knowledge personal, appealing and relevant


• Must be skilled in the use of words, graphics, online media and storytelling


• Have excellent interpersonal skills and capability to work with researchers in a wide range of disciplines


• The ability to work in a team, manage expectations from others and adhere to deadlines


• Must able to conduct meetings, workshops and integrate ideas


• Be a clear communicator, reliable and trustworthy.

Advantageous:

• A PhD in biogeochemistry or related field


• Have experience in a research environment


• A broad understanding of the scope of work in the natural sciences


• A demonstrable record of interdisciplinarity


• A publication record, including anywhere across the spectrum of scientific, technical, popular and social media


• Have an understanding of the funder/donor environment


• A membership of a professional society.

Responsibilities:

• Develop a communication plan in support of BIOGRIP’s strategic imperatives


• Build and nurture relationships with partners, collaborators and funders through effective communication and engagement


• Manage digital and online communications, monitor performance and adapt approaches accordingly


• Write, produce and simplify scientific information and communicate it within BIOGRIP and beyond, including collaborators, partners and funders


• Use words, graphics, online media and storytelling to promote and publicise the work of BIOGRIP, including posting information on the BIOGRIP website or social media, such as science stories and newsletters


• Work with researchers to conceptualise the best way of communicating their science


• Plan and support coordination of events, such as training, workshops, conferences and open days


• Prepare branding and marketing material for use in training events, outreach programs and expositions


• Assist with reporting requirements for funders.

The annual cost of employment for 2026, including benefits is between R661 967 and R778 783.

Please click the "apply" on the UCT Jobs site (View) button to create a candidate profile and submit your application. Please complete/attach the following to your profile before submitting your application:.

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)


• Motivational letter explaining fit to the position (not more than 2 pages)


• Three referee names which must include their title and name, position details, relationship to you, their e-mail address and telephone number.

Any enquiries around the application process to be addressed to Ms Abigail Dixon at [email protected]  or 021 650 1673

An application which does not comply with the above requirements will be regarded as incomplete.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and will be required to undergo a competency test.

Closing date: 6 July 2026

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UCT reserves the right not to appoint.