Agricultural Research Assistant

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 240,000 - 320,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid role

Medical aid

Retirement contributions

Paid annual leave

Research facilities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Agricultural Research Assistant in Bloemfontein to assist senior scientists with experiments, data collection, and analysis.

The role involves fieldwork and laboratory duties, data management in Excel, and contributing to reports while maintaining safety protocols and inventory. This hybrid position offers exposure to both on-site research and remote data tasks for an aspiring researcher.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or diploma in Agriculture, Agronomy, Agricultural Science, Biology, or related field.
• Basic understanding of agricultural principles, experimental design, and data collection.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel for data management.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data recording and execution of tasks.
• Good organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.

Responsibilities

• Assist senior researchers in designing and conducting agricultural experiments in laboratory and field settings.
• Collect, record, and organize data accurately from experiments and trials.
• Perform routine laboratory analyses, including soil, water, and plant tissue testing.
• Prepare experimental materials, samples, and equipment for research activities.
• Maintain field plots, ensuring proper cultivation, irrigation, and pest/disease monitoring.
• Operate and maintain agricultural research equipment and instruments.
• Assist with data entry and preliminary statistical analysis of research findings.
• Contribute to literature reviews and the preparation of research reports and presentations.
• Ensure adherence to laboratory safety protocols and experimental procedures.
• Support the management of research supplies and inventory.

Skills

Agricultural principles

Experimental design

Data collection

Microsoft Excel

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

About the Role

A leading agricultural research institute in Bloemfontein, Free State, is seeking a dedicated and meticulous Agricultural Research Assistant to support ongoing research projects. This role is vital for assisting senior scientists in conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and maintaining laboratory and field trial operations. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in agricultural science and a passion for contributing to advancements in the field. This position offers an excellent opportunity for an aspiring researcher to gain valuable experience in a stimulating academic and practical environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist senior researchers in designing and conducting agricultural experiments in laboratory and field settings.
• Collect, record, and organize data accurately from experiments and trials.
• Perform routine laboratory analyses, including soil, water, and plant tissue testing.
• Prepare experimental materials, samples, and equipment for research activities.
• Maintain field plots, ensuring proper cultivation, irrigation, and pest/disease monitoring.
• Operate and maintain agricultural research equipment and instruments.
• Assist with data entry and preliminary statistical analysis of research findings.
• Contribute to literature reviews and the preparation of research reports and presentations.
• Ensure adherence to laboratory safety protocols and experimental procedures.
• Support the management of research supplies and inventory.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree or relevant diploma in Agriculture, Agronomy, Agricultural Science, Biology, or a related field.
• Basic understanding of agricultural principles, experimental design, and data collection.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel for data management.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data recording and execution of tasks.
• Good organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a research team.
• Willingness to perform fieldwork in varying weather conditions and assist with lab duties.
• Familiarity with basic statistical concepts is a plus.
• Experience with or willingness to learn specific agricultural research methodologies relevant to Bloemfontein, Free State.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with qualifications and experience.
• Comprehensive benefits, including medical aid and retirement contributions, are provided.
• This hybrid role allows for a blend of essential on-site research activities and remote data management or reporting tasks.
• Opportunities for professional development and further training in specialized agricultural research areas are available.
• A supportive and collaborative research environment is fostered.
• Paid annual leave and other statutory benefits are included.
• Access to well-equipped research facilities in Bloemfontein, Free State.
• This role provides a strong foundation for a career in agricultural research.