Agricultural Research Scientist - Crop Improvement

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Retirement plans

Paid time off

Professional development

Conference attendance

State-of-the-art facilities

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch seeks an Agricultural Research Scientist specializing in Crop Improvement to lead cutting-edge work in plant breeding, genetics, and molecular biology. The role combines on‑site laboratory and field research with remote data analysis and report writing.

The ideal candidate holds a Ph.D. with 5+ years post‑doc experience, strong publication history, and proven ability to design field trials and manage research projects in a hybrid environment.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Agronomy, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of post‑doctoral research experience in crop improvement.
• Demonstrated expertise in plant genetics, molecular biology, and quantitative genetics.
• Proven experience in designing and conducting field trials and interpreting results.
• Strong statistical analysis skills and proficiency with software (e.g., R, SAS).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a track record of scientific publications.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a hybrid research environment.
• Experience with grant writing and project management is a plus.
• Proficiency in common laboratory techniques and equipment.
• Passion for agricultural innovation and sustainable crop development.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute research projects focused on improving crop traits such as yield, disease resistance, nutritional value, and stress tolerance.
• Utilize modern plant breeding techniques, including marker‑assisted selection and genomic analysis.
• Conduct laboratory experiments involving plant tissue culture, molecular genetics, and biochemistry.
• Plan and manage field trials to evaluate new crop varieties under various environmental conditions.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret complex biological and agronomic data.
• Prepare research findings for publication in peer‑reviewed journals and presentation at scientific conferences.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams of scientists, agronomists, and technicians.
• Contribute to grant writing and secure research funding.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure adherence to safety protocols.
• Supervise and mentor junior researchers and technical staff.

Skills

Statistical analysis

Written & verbal communication

Independent & collaborative work

Grant writing

Education

Ph.D. in Plant Breeding/Genetics/Agronomy

Tools

R

SAS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading agricultural research institution in Stellenbosch, is seeking a highly qualified Agricultural Research Scientist specializing in Crop Improvement. This role is integral to developing and enhancing crop varieties that are resilient, high‑yielding, and sustainable. The scientist will conduct cutting‑edge research, utilizing advanced techniques in plant breeding, genetics, and molecular biology to create improved crop lines. This position offers a hybrid work model, allowing for significant on‑site laboratory and field research, complemented by remote work for data analysis, report writing, and collaborative virtual meetings. You will contribute to addressing critical challenges in food security and agricultural productivity through scientific innovation. The ideal candidate is a dedicated researcher with a strong academic background, excellent analytical skills, and a passion for advancing agricultural science. Your work will have a tangible impact on the future of farming in the region and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute research projects focused on improving crop traits such as yield, disease resistance, nutritional value, and stress tolerance.
• Utilize modern plant breeding techniques, including marker‑assisted selection and genomic analysis.
• Conduct laboratory experiments involving plant tissue culture, molecular genetics, and biochemistry.
• Plan and manage field trials to evaluate new crop varieties under various environmental conditions.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret complex biological and agronomic data.
• Prepare research findings for publication in peer‑reviewed journals and presentation at scientific conferences.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams of scientists, agronomists, and technicians.
• Contribute to grant writing and secure research funding.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure adherence to safety protocols.
• Supervise and mentor junior researchers and technical staff.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Agronomy, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of post‑doctoral research experience in crop improvement.
• Demonstrated expertise in plant genetics, molecular biology, and quantitative genetics.
• Proven experience in designing and conducting field trials and interpreting results.
• Strong statistical analysis skills and proficiency with relevant software (e.g., R, SAS).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a track record of scientific publications.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a hybrid research environment.
• Experience with grant writing and project management is a plus.
• Proficiency in common laboratory techniques and equipment.
• Passion for agricultural innovation and sustainable crop development.

Benefits

Our client provides a competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience for this hybrid research position. Employees enjoy comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including medical and retirement plans. Generous paid time off and opportunities for professional development, including attendance at international conferences, are standard. You will have access to state‑of‑the‑art research facilities and cutting‑technology . Our client is committed to fostering an environment of scientific excellence and discovery, offering a chance to make significant contributions to agricultural science. Enjoy a balance between focused lab / field work and flexible remote research tasks.