The aim of the South African Biodiversity Information Facility (SABIF) is to facilitate access to biodiversity information via the internet and in this manner contribute to sustainable development.  It has a number of key objectives including:

a)  promoting the sharing of data and 

b)   Contributing to education, training and capacity development for   promoting national access to data

Biodiversity Informatics is a young and emerging field of work.  In an endeavour to foster more interest and greater involvement in this field of science, SABIF is making available an emerging scientist travel award. This award will serve as an incentive to young emerging scientists, and will provide an opportunity for an emerging researcher to be exposed to global best practice in biodiversity informatics.   

This year the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) is celebrating 10 years of its existence and the science symposium will showcase the success stories of selected country nodes.  The symposium will take on the 5^th October, in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

The Department of Science and Technology is pleased to provide financial support to the successful candidate. All expenses such as flight, accommodation, ground transport and meals will be provided.

 Eligibility

Eligible emerging scientists should meet the following criteria:

Work and research is in the field of biodiversity informatics and/or biodiversity

·         Currently based in the workplace

·         A maximum of 5 years work experience

·         Qualified with an M.Sc or PhD

·         Have had limited travel opportunities,

Researchers are required to submit a motivation as to why they would like to attend the GBIF Science Symposium and how it will benefit their work, as well as a research proposal that details the nature of their research.  An official letter of support from the direct manager/supervisor and Curriculum Vitae is also required. 

While all eligible candidates will be considered, preference will be given to historically disadvantaged individuals.

Applicants should have a valid South African passport.

 Process

All applications must include the following:

·         Motivation

·         Research proposal

·         Official letter of support from direct manager

·         Curriculum Vitae

Applications must be submitted to the Learning Network Manager, Ms. Paula Hathorn (P.Hathorn@sanbi.org.za) by 31 August 2011.