Agricultural Research Scientist - Soil Health

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Retirement plan

Conference funding

Lab facilities

Paid time off

Career advancement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Agricultural Research Scientist (Soil Health) in Bloemfontein, Free State. You will design and manage field and lab experiments to advance soil health, fertility, and microbial activity, collaborating with researchers, extension specialists, and producers.

The role requires a PhD in Soil Science or closely related field, 5+ years post-doctoral experience, and strong data analysis abilities using R or SAS.

Qualifications

• PhD required in a closely related field.
• Minimum 5 years post-doctoral experience in soil health.
• Strong experimental design and data analysis skills.
• Hands-on soil sampling and lab analysis experience.
• Knowledge of nutrient cycling and soil microbiology.
• Excellent scientific writing and communication abilities.

Responsibilities

• Design, conduct, and manage field and lab research on soil health and fertility.
• Analyze soil samples for physical, chemical, and biological properties.
• Investigate effects of practices on soil health indicators.
• Develop and test strategies for soil remediation and enhancement.
• Collect and interpret data using statistical methods and software.
• Prepare detailed research reports and presentations for conferences.

Skills

Soil health research

Experimental design

Data analysis (R/SAS)

Soil sampling techniques

Nutrient cycling knowledge

Scientific writing

Independent & collaborative work

Education

PhD in Soil Science or related field

Tools

R

SAS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading agricultural research institute affiliated with **Bloemfontein**, is seeking a dedicated and innovative Agricultural Research Scientist specializing in Soil Health. This role is integral to advancing our understanding and implementation of sustainable soil management practices within the **Agriculture & Forestry** sector. You will conduct rigorous scientific research, manage field and laboratory experiments, and contribute to the development of practical solutions for improving soil fertility, structure, and microbial activity. The position is based in **Bloemfontein, Free State**, offering a unique opportunity to influence agricultural practices in a key farming region. The ideal candidate will possess a strong research background and a passion for soil science and its impact on crop production and environmental sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, conduct, and manage field and laboratory research experiments focused on soil health and fertility.
• Analyze soil samples for physical, chemical, and biological properties.
• Investigate the effects of different agricultural practices (e.g., cover cropping, reduced tillage, organic amendments) on soil health indicators.
• Develop and test innovative strategies for soil remediation and enhancement.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret complex data, using statistical methods and research software.
• Prepare detailed research reports, scientific publications, and presentations for conferences and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with other researchers, extension specialists, and farmers to disseminate research findings and promote adoption of best practices.
• Stay current with the latest scientific literature and advancements in soil science and sustainable agriculture.
• Supervise the work of research assistants and technicians involved in soil analysis and field trials.
• Contribute to grant writing and securing funding for research projects.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Soil Science, Agronomy, Agricultural Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral research experience in soil health management.
• Proven expertise in experimental design, data analysis (including statistical software like R or SAS), and interpretation of soil science data.
• Hands-on experience with soil sampling techniques and laboratory analysis of soil properties (physical, chemical, biological).
• Strong understanding of nutrient cycling, soil organic matter dynamics, and soil microbiology.
• Excellent scientific writing and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a research team environment.
• Experience in translating research findings into practical recommendations for agricultural producers.
• Familiarity with the agricultural landscape and soil types of the **Free State** is highly desirable.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to conduct fieldwork in various conditions.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with qualifications and experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
• Retirement savings plan with employer contribution.
• Funding and support for attending scientific conferences and workshops.
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and research equipment.
• Opportunities for collaboration with national and international research institutions.
• A stimulating research environment focused on critical agricultural challenges.
• Contribution to sustainable agriculture and food security in **Bloemfontein** and beyond.
• Potential for career advancement within the research institute.