Director: SU Animal Research Facilities and Experimental Animal Veterinarian

Stellenbosch University; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 30 000 - 70 000; Full time

Job summary

An established university seeks a dedicated SAVC-registered veterinarian to lead the Animal Research Facilities. This role involves ensuring compliance with animal welfare legislation, managing staff, and providing veterinary care. The successful candidate will have opportunities for research and publication, contributing to the ethical use of animals in research. With a focus on the welfare of animals, this position offers a chance to make a significant impact in the field of veterinary science. Join a forward-thinking institution committed to excellence in research and education.

Qualifications

• SAVC-registered veterinarian with at least three years of clinical experience.
• Experience in staff management and small animal medicine.

Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with animal health and welfare legislation.
• Manage strategic planning, budgets, and staff training.

Skills

Veterinary Qualification (BVSc, BVMCh)

Clinical Experience

Staff Management

Knowledge of Small Animal Medicine

Communication Skills

Computer Literacy (MS Word, Excel)

Education

BVSc, BVMCh, or equivalent

Postgraduate Qualification

Tools

MS Word

MS Excel

Job description

Department Description/Departement Beskrywing

Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and Faculty of Science

Animal Research Facilities

Director: SU Animal Research Facilities and Experimental Animal Veterinarian

(Post Level 6)

Ref. TGB11/080/0425

This is a shared position between the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (Tygerberg Campus) and the Faculty of Science at Stellenbosch University.

At Stellenbosch University (SU), we place high value on the ethical use of, and performance of research on animals, with the welfare of the animals being the main consideration. At the ARF, our researchers conduct research, among other things, to identify root causes of various diseases in humans and animals and to explore treatment options. This research is conducted under the auspices of the Research Ethics Committee: Animal Care and Use (REC: ACU), in full compliance with the requirements of the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC), South African National Standards (SANS), National Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD), Research Ethics Committee: Biological and Environmental Safety (REC:BES), and the National Council of Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA). All research must be approved by the REC:ACU before commencement. Legislation requires that all invasive animal research, as well as the facilities for such research, must be supervised by a SAVC-registered veterinarian.

Stellenbosch University seeks a SAVC-registered veterinarian to lead the SU Animal Research Facilities, ensuring standards (animal health, wellbeing, scientific, veterinary, health and safety, and service provision) and regulatory compliance related to the care and use of animals at the Faculties of Science and Medicine and Health Sciences. Staff and students performing invasive procedures must be trained, certified, and supervised by the veterinarian, with surgical and advanced euthanasia procedures performed personally by the veterinarian. The facilities must be registered under a staff veterinarian’s name. The successful candidate will report to the Vice Dean: Research and Internationalisation (80%) and the Director: Faculty Management (20%).

The incumbent will act as the principal for all the Animal Research Facilities at both faculties, in accordance with the Veterinary and Para-Veterinary Professions Act and related regulations.

Key responsibilities include:

• Ensuring compliance with the Veterinary and Para-Veterinary Professions Act, 1982 (Act No. 19 of 1982), associated Rules, and other relevant legislation affecting animal health and welfare;
• Adhering to the South African National Standards (SANS) 10386:2021 for the care and use of animals in research;
• Compliance with the Animal Diseases Act (No. 35 of 1984, as amended), especially Section 20.

Additional duties include managing strategic planning and budgets, developing policies and SOPs in consultation with REC: ACU, managing staff, ensuring training and certification, providing veterinary procedures, overseeing health and safety, and monitoring animal welfare.

The role offers opportunities for autonomous research, supervision, and publication, with potential academic rank consideration based on research output and experience.

Job Requirements

• BVSc, BVMCh, or equivalent veterinary qualification
• Postgraduate qualification in any field
• Registration with SAVC for independent veterinary practice
• Minimum three years’ recent clinical experience
• Experience in staff management
• Knowledge of small animal medicine and surgery
• Experience in teaching and demonstrating technical skills
• Proficiency in English communication
• Good interpersonal skills
• Computer literacy (MS Word, Excel, internet)

Preferred Qualifications

• Evidence of academic activities (publications, supervision, conferences)
• Experience in animal research at a tertiary institution
• Proficiency in Afrikaans is advantageous

Application Process

Stellenbosch University values employment equity and reserves the right not to appoint. Applications should include a detailed CV with at least three referees and be submitted online via the 'Apply Now' link. The university may verify qualifications and conduct background checks. Medical screening is required for occupations with potential hazards. Feedback will be provided within 4-6 weeks of the closing date. For inquiries, contact Prof Nico Gey van Pittius or the HR Centre.

Start date: 01 June 2025
Closing date: 05 May 2025