Remote Plant Pathologist - Disease Management

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly skilled Remote Plant Pathologist to diagnose diseases, develop IDM strategies, and advise on management across crops. This fully remote role emphasizes expert diagnostic services and collaboration with a global network of researchers.

You will contribute to disease surveillance, tool development, and knowledge dissemination while working independently in a flexible, international setting.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s in Plant Pathology or closely related field.
• At least 6 years diagnosing plant diseases in agricultural settings.
• Strong knowledge of plant–pathogen interactions and host resistance.
• Ability to identify diseases via symptoms, microscopy, and molecular methods.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; convey complex science clearly.

Responsibilities

• Diagnose plant diseases from samples, images, and field reports.
• Review literature to identify causal agents and epidemiology.
• Develop IDM strategies including cultural, biological, and chemical controls.
• Advise agronomists and researchers on disease ID and management.
• Create diagnostic tools, protocols, and educational materials.
• Analyze disease data to identify trends and outbreaks.
• Stay updated on new pathogens and plant pathology advances.
• Collaborate virtually with scientists and extension officers.
• Prepare reports and presentations on plant disease issues.

Skills

Communication skills

Research & analysis

Remote work tools

Independent work

Education

Ph.D. or Master’s in Plant Pathology or related field

Job description

About the Role Our client is a leading agricultural research and development organization committed to enhancing crop health and productivity across South Africa. We are actively seeking a highly skilled and dedicated Remote Plant Pathologist to bolster our efforts in disease identification, diagnosis, and management. This pivotal role operates entirely remotely, allowing you to leverage your expertise from anywhere while contributing to critical disease surveillance and control strategies for a wide array of crops. You will be instrumental in safeguarding agricultural output and ensuring the sustainability of farming practices by providing expert diagnostic and advisory services.

Key Responsibilities

• Diagnose plant diseases based on submitted samples, images, and field reports from remote agricultural sites.
• Conduct literature reviews and database searches to identify causal agents, epidemiology, and effective control measures for emerging and known plant diseases.
• Develop and recommend integrated disease management (IDM) strategies, including cultural practices, biological controls, and judicious use of chemical agents.
• Provide expert advice and technical guidance to agronomists, farm managers, and researchers on disease identification and management.
• Contribute to the development of diagnostic tools, protocols, and educational materials for disease identification and prevention.
• Analyze disease incidence and severity data to identify trends and predict potential outbreaks.
• Stay abreast of new pathogens, disease dynamics, and advancements in plant pathology research and technology.
• Collaborate virtually with a network of agricultural scientists, researchers, and extension officers.
• Prepare detailed reports, scientific articles, and presentations on plant disease issues and management strategies.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Plant Pathology, Mycology, Bacteriology, Virology, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in diagnosing plant diseases and managing crop pathology issues in an agricultural setting.
• Comprehensive knowledge of plant-pathogen interactions, disease cycles, and host resistance mechanisms.
• Proven ability to accurately identify plant diseases using visual symptoms, microscopic examination, and molecular techniques (though laboratory work is not required in this remote role, understanding is key).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex scientific information clearly and concisely.
• Proficiency in using digital communication tools, scientific literature databases, and data analysis software.
• Strong research and analytical skills, with a keen eye for detail.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines in a remote work environment.
• Familiarity with agricultural practices and major crops in South Africa is highly advantageous.

Benefits

• This fully remote position offers the ultimate flexibility, allowing you to contribute your expertise from virtually anywhere.
• You will receive a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package.
• This is a unique opportunity to be part of a vital scientific team, working on critical agricultural challenges and impacting food security in South Africa without the need for physical presence in Queenstown or any central office.