Plant Pathologist: Disease Diagnosis & Crop Protection

Placements24; Queenstown (MD); On-site; USD 33,000 - 51,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Plant Pathologist to join our R&D team in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. The role focuses on identifying, diagnosing, and managing diseases affecting key crops, with field and laboratory studies to understand disease cycles and develop control strategies.

The ideal candidate has a Masters or PhD in Plant Pathology or related field, at least four years of experience, and strong knowledge of fungal, bacterial, and viral pathogens, plus diagnostic and epidemiology skills.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Plant Pathology, Mycology, Bacteriology or Virology.
• Minimum 4 years' plant pathology research or disease management experience.
• Experience diagnosing plant diseases, preferably within the South African agricultural context.
• Knowledge of fungal, bacterial and viral pathogens and their life cycles.
• Lab techniques for pathogen isolation, identification and characterization.
• Strong understanding of plant physiology, crop science and epidemiology.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and research skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication; able to present technical information.
• Ability to work independently and in teams; valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Identify and diagnose plant diseases in Queenstown and surrounding areas.
• Conduct lab experiments to isolate, culture and identify pathogens.
• Design field trials to evaluate disease control methods.
• Develop integrated disease management strategies for key crops.
• Collaborate with researchers, agencies and industry partners.
• Maintain records of findings and recommendations.
• Provide technical advice to farmers and agronomists.

Education

Master's or PhD in Plant Pathology or related field

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Plant Pathologist to join our R&D team in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. The role focuses on identifying, diagnosing, and managing diseases affecting key crops, with field and laboratory studies to understand disease cycles and develop control strategies.

The ideal candidate has a Masters or PhD in Plant Pathology or related field, at least four years of experience, and strong knowledge of fungal, bacterial, and viral pathogens, plus diagnostic and epidemiology skills.