Agricultural Research Scientist - Plant Breeding

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Research grants

Health, dental & vision insurance

Professional development

State-of-the-art facilities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Agricultural Research Scientist specialized in Plant Breeding to join our Stellenbosch team. You will design and drive breeding programs, applying genomic selection and molecular techniques to deliver resilient, high-yield cultivars for local and international markets.

You will conduct field trials, analyze genetic data, and communicate findings through reports and publications, collaborating with agronomists and researchers in a hybrid remote/on-site setting. A Ph.D.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. required in relevant field with strong research background.
• Minimum of 5 years of applied plant breeding research.
• Experience with genomic selection and marker-assisted selection is highly desirable.
• Strong publication record and ability to present findings.

Responsibilities

• Design and manage plant breeding programs for major crops.
• Apply genetic and molecular techniques to develop superior varieties.
• Conduct field trials to evaluate cultivar performance.
• Analyze genetic data and perform statistical interpretations.
• Collaborate with agronomists and researchers to achieve project goals.
• Prepare reports and presentations on breeding progress.

Skills

Quantitative genetics

Statistical analysis

Molecular breeding techniques

Independent & collaborative work

Education

Ph.D. in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Agronomy, or related field

Tools

Genomic selection tools

Marker-assisted selection

R/Python analytics

Job description

About the Role

Our client seeks a highly qualified Agricultural Research Scientist specializing in Plant Breeding to join their innovative team in Stellenbosch . This role is central to developing new and improved crop varieties that are resilient, high-yielding, and adapted to changing environmental conditions. You will conduct cutting-edge research, manage breeding programs, and collaborate with field teams to test and deploy new cultivars. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the future of agriculture through scientific advancement, with a blend of laboratory, field, and remote work.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute comprehensive plant breeding programs for key agricultural crops.


• Utilize advanced genetic and molecular techniques to develop superior crop varieties.


• Conduct field trials to evaluate the performance of new cultivars under various conditions.


• Analyze genetic data, perform statistical analysis, and interpret research findings.


• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including agronomists and researchers, on project goals.


• Prepare research reports, scientific publications, and presentations on breeding advancements.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Agronomy, or a related field.


• Minimum of 5 years of experience in applied plant breeding research.


• Proven expertise in quantitative genetics, statistical analysis, and molecular breeding techniques.


• Experience with genomic selection and marker-assisted selection is highly desirable.


• Strong publication record and experience in presenting research findings.


• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a hybrid remote/on-site setting.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and research grants.


• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.


• Opportunities for professional development, conferences, and further research.


• Access to state-of-the‑art laboratory facilities and field stations.


• A stimulating research environment focused on innovation in agriculture.