Agricultural Research Scientist - Crop Breeding

Placements24; Klerksdorp; Vor Ort; ZAR 900.000 - 1.500.000; Vollzeit

Benefits dieser Stelle

Competitive salary

Medical benefits

Retirement plan

Annual leave

Training opportunities

Conferences

Zusammenfassung

Placements24 seeks an Agricultural Research Scientist specializing in Crop Breeding in Klerksdorp, North West. You will lead breeding programs, evaluate new varieties, and drive field trials to improve yield, disease resistance, and nutrition.

You will analyze genetic data and collaborate with experts to publish results and support funding efforts, mentoring junior staff along the way.

Qualifikationen

• Ph.D. in Plant Breeding or closely related field.
• Minimum 5 years of crop breeding research experience.
• Experience with field trials and phenotypic data collection.
• Proficiency in R or SAS and bioinformatics.

Aufgaben

• Design and execute breeding programs for key crop species using conventional and molecular techniques.
• Develop and evaluate new crop varieties with improved traits.
• Conduct field trials to assess performance under various conditions.
• Analyze genetic data to identify desirable genes and markers.
• Manage seed increase for elite breeding lines.
• Collaborate with agronomists and plant pathologists to achieve research outcomes.
• Prepare reports, publications, and presentations for conferences and funders.
• Contribute to grant writing and secure funding for projects.
• Supervise and mentor junior researchers, technicians and interns.

Kenntnisse

Quantitative genetics

Molecular marker tech

Plant biotechnology

Statistical analysis

Ausbildung

Ph.D. in Plant Breeding / Genetics / Agronomy

Tools

R

SAS

Bioinformatics tools

Jobbeschreibung

About the Role

Our client, a premier agricultural research institution, is seeking a talented Agricultural Research Scientist specializing in Crop Breeding to join their dedicated team in Klerksdorp, North West . This critical role involves developing and improving crop varieties through advanced breeding techniques to enhance yield, disease resistance, and nutritional value. You will conduct cutting-edge research, manage field trials, and analyze genetic data to contribute to the advancement of agricultural productivity and food security. This position is ideal for a passionate scientist eager to make a tangible impact on the future of agriculture within a collaborative and innovative environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute breeding programs for key crop species, utilizing conventional and molecular breeding techniques.
• Develop and evaluate new crop varieties with improved traits such as higher yield, drought tolerance, pest resistance, and enhanced nutritional content.
• Conduct field trials to assess the performance of advanced breeding lines under various environmental conditions.
• Analyze genetic data using statistical software and bioinformatics tools to identify desirable genes and markers.
• Manage seed increase and multiplication programs for elite breeding lines.
• Collaborate with agronomists, plant pathologists, and other scientists to ensure comprehensive research outcomes.
• Prepare research reports, scientific publications, and presentations for conferences and stakeholders.
• Contribute to grant writing and secure funding for research projects.
• Supervise and mentor junior researchers, technicians, and interns involved in breeding programs.

Requirements

• A Ph.D. in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Agronomy, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in crop breeding research and development.
• Proven expertise in quantitative genetics, molecular marker technology, and plant biotechnology.
• Demonstrated experience in designing and managing field trials and collecting phenotypic data.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software (e.g., R, SAS) and bioinformatics tools.
• Excellent understanding of crop physiology and agronomic practices relevant to the North West region.
• Strong scientific writing and presentation skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and independently manage research projects.
• A commitment to ethical research practices and data integrity.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, and generous annual leave.
• We provide opportunities for professional growth through continuous training, attendance at international conferences, and collaborations with leading research institutions worldwide.
• This role offers the chance to work at the forefront of agricultural science, contributing to solutions that will feed a growing population.
• You will be based in Klerksdorp, contributing to vital research in the heart of South Africa's agricultural landscape.