Senior Plant Pathologist - Disease Management Expert

Placements24; Southampton; On-site; GBP 54,000 - 81,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Life assurance

Professional development opportunities

Annual leave & sick leave

Job summary

Randburg Agricultural Research Institute invites applications for a Senior Plant Pathologist to lead research on crop diseases, diagnostic development and IDM strategies. The role combines field investigations with laboratory work, guiding teams and collaborating with farmers and extension services to safeguard crops.

The ideal candidate will have a PhD or MSc in Plant Pathology or related field, 8+ years of experience, and strong communication skills.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master’s in Plant Pathology or related field.
• At least 8 years in plant pathology research and diagnostics.
• Experience with fungal, bacterial and viral diseases.
• Molecular diagnostics (PCR, sequencing) preferred.
• Strong scientific writing and oral communication skills.
• Knowledge of South African crop diseases and sectors.

Responsibilities

• Diagnose plant diseases in crops via field and lab observations.
• Lead研究 on epidemiology, aetiology and management of pathogens.
• Develop and refine diagnostic techniques (PCR, sequencing).
• Design IDM strategies and implement disease control measures.
• Supervise laboratory staff and manage projects.
• Publish findings and present at conferences.
• Collaborate with researchers, agronomists, and industry.

Skills

Plant pathology

Field diagnostics

Leadership

Scientific writing

Analytical thinking

Education

PhD in Plant Pathology

Master’s in related field

Tools

PCR

Sequencing

Molecular diagnostics

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading agricultural research institute located in Randburg , Gauteng, is seeking a highly specialized Senior Plant Pathologist. This critical role will focus on the identification, diagnosis, and management of plant diseases affecting a wide range of crops crucial to South African agriculture. The Senior Plant Pathologist will lead research initiatives, develop innovative disease control strategies, and provide expert guidance to farmers and agricultural extension services. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of fungal, bacterial, viral, and other plant pathogens, along with advanced knowledge of molecular diagnostics and integrated disease management (IDM) principles. You will be instrumental in safeguarding crop health, minimizing yield losses, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices by preventing and controlling devastating plant diseases. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to agricultural resilience and food security within the region. Join a respected institution dedicated to advancing agricultural science and supporting the farming community. Your expertise will be key in protecting crops from emerging and existing disease threats.

Key Responsibilities

• Diagnose plant diseases affecting various crops through field and laboratory observations.
• Conduct research on the epidemiology, aetiology, and management of plant pathogens.
• Develop and refine molecular and traditional diagnostic techniques for plant diseases.
• Design and implement integrated disease management (IDM) strategies.
• Investigate outbreaks and provide timely recommendations for disease control.
• Supervise laboratory personnel and manage research projects related to plant pathology.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at scientific conferences.
• Collaborate with other researchers, agronomists, and industry stakeholders.
• Develop training materials and conduct workshops for farmers and extension agents.
• Contribute to national and regional plant health initiatives.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Plant Pathology, Botany, Microbiology, or a related agricultural science field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in plant pathology research and diagnostics, with a focus on agricultural crops.
• Proven expertise in identifying and managing fungal, bacterial, and viral plant diseases.
• Experience with molecular diagnostic techniques (e.g., PCR, sequencing) is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of crop physiology, agronomy, and integrated pest management principles.
• Demonstrated experience in leading research projects and supervising staff.
• Excellent scientific writing and oral communication skills.
• Familiarity with the South African agricultural sector and common crop diseases in Gauteng and surrounding regions.
• Ability to work effectively in a laboratory and field setting.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• This includes a comprehensive medical aid plan, a pension fund, and life assurance.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development, including attending international conferences and specialized training, are provided.
• Employees have access to well-equipped research laboratories and field facilities.
• This role offers significant potential for career advancement within a leading agricultural research institution.
• Generous annual leave and paid sick leave are included.
• Join a collaborative and innovative research environment dedicated to advancing agricultural science.
• We are committed to fostering the professional growth of our employees.