Agricultural Research Scientist

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical and retirement benefits

Access to cutting-edge facilities

Support for international conferences

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein is seeking an accomplished Agricultural Research Scientist to lead innovative crop genetics and soil science research. Based on-site, you will design experiments, analyze data, and translate findings into practical farming improvements for the Free State region.

The role emphasizes collaboration with researchers, extension workers, and farmers, with opportunities to publish, present at conferences, and access cutting-edge facilities.

Qualifications

• PhD required in Agronomy, Plant Breeding, Soil Science, or related field.
• Proven track record of published agricultural research.
• Strong experimental design and statistical analysis skills.
• Experience with plant physiology, genetics, and molecular biology techniques.
• Ability to communicate technical results clearly.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experiments on crop genetics and agronomy.
• Analyze data with statistical methods and interpret results.
• Develop improved crop varieties with higher yield and disease resistance.
• Study soil health, nutrient cycling, and sustainable practices.
• Publish findings and present at conferences.
• Collaborate with researchers, extension agents, and farmers to disseminate results.

Skills

Experimental design

Statistical analysis

Scientific software

Plant physiology

Genetics

Molecular biology techniques

Education

Ph.D. in Agronomy/Plant Breeding/Soil Science

Job description

About the Role

Our client is recruiting an accomplished Agricultural Research Scientist to lead innovative research initiatives based in Bloemfontein . This role is essential for driving advancements in agricultural science, focusing on developing new crop varieties, improving soil fertility, and enhancing farming techniques to address the unique challenges of the Free State region. You will conduct rigorous experiments, analyze complex data, and translate findings into practical applications for the agricultural community. The ideal candidate will possess a strong academic background, a passion for scientific inquiry, and the ability to contribute significantly to sustainable and productive farming practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute scientific experiments to study crop genetics, breeding, and agronomic performance.
• Analyze research data using statistical methods and interpret findings to draw scientifically sound conclusions.
• Develop new or improved crop varieties with enhanced yield, disease resistance, and nutritional value.
• Investigate soil health, nutrient cycling, and sustainable land management practices.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at scientific conferences.
• Collaborate with other researchers, extension agents, and farmers to disseminate research outcomes.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Agronomy, Plant Breeding, Soil Science, or a related agricultural science field.
• Proven track record of successful agricultural research and publications.
• Expertise in experimental design, statistical analysis, and relevant scientific software.
• Strong knowledge of plant physiology, genetics, and molecular biology techniques.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical reporting and presentations.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and research grant opportunities.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Access to cutting-edge laboratory facilities and research equipment.
• Support for attending international scientific conferences and workshops.
• A stimulating research environment focused on agricultural innovation in Bloemfontein .