Agricultural Research Scientist - Soil Science

Placements24; South Africa; Remote; ZAR 800,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Research allowances

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Polokwane, Limpopo, is seeking an Agricultural Research Scientist specializing in Soil Science. The role involves designing and conducting innovative soil research to improve soil health, fertility, and environmental resilience for South African agriculture.

You will lead soil sampling, laboratory analyses, and field experiments, analyze data with R/SAS/SPSS, publish findings, and collaborate with researchers, extension agents, and industry partners.

Qualifications

• PhD in Soil Science or closely related field.
• Proven independent research with publications in reputable journals.
• Extensive experience in soil sampling and laboratory analyses.
• Experience with field experiments and soil-plant-environment interactions.
• Proficiency in statistical software and data management.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to travel for field work and conferences.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and manage soil-focused research projects.
• Conduct lab analyses of soil samples.
• Plan and implement field experiments to evaluate soil management and crop responses.
• Process and statistically analyze data using software.
• Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals.
• Collaborate with researchers, extension agents, and industry partners.
• Contribute to grant writing and funding acquisition.
• Ensure safety and ethical guidelines.
• Stay updated with advancements in soil science.

Skills

Soil science

Research design

Statistical analysis

R/SAS/SPSS

Data management

Soil sampling

Field experiments

Scientific publishing

Communication

Travel willingness

Education

PhD in Soil Science

Tools

R

SAS

SPSS

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a leading agricultural research institute dedicated to advancing scientific understanding and sustainable practices in farming. Located in the vicinity of Polokwane, Limpopo, the institute is seeking a highly motivated and qualified Agricultural Research Scientist specializing in Soil Science. This role is central to our mission of improving soil health, fertility, and environmental resilience for South African agriculture.

The scientist will be responsible for designing and conducting innovative research projects, analyzing soil samples, interpreting data, and publishing findings. This position requires a strong theoretical foundation in soil science coupled with practical laboratory and field research experience. The successful candidate will contribute significantly to research initiatives aimed at addressing critical agricultural challenges in the Limpopo province and beyond. This role offers a stimulating research environment in Polokwane.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and manage research projects focused on soil chemistry, physics, biology, and fertility.
• Conduct laboratory analyses of soil samples for a wide range of physical, chemical, and biological properties.
• Plan and implement field experiments to evaluate soil management practices, nutrient applications, and crop responses.
• Collect, process, and statistically analyze research data using appropriate software tools.
• Interpret research findings and translate them into practical recommendations for farmers and agricultural stakeholders.
• Prepare scientific reports, manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals, and present findings at conferences.
• Collaborate with other researchers, extension agents, and industry partners on joint research initiatives.
• Contribute to grant writing and the acquisition of research funding.
• Ensure adherence to laboratory safety protocols and research ethics guidelines.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements and methodologies in soil science and agricultural research.

Requirements

• Ph.D. degree in Soil Science, Agronomy, or a closely related agricultural science field.
• Proven track record of conducting independent research, with publications in reputable scientific journals.
• Extensive experience in soil sampling, laboratory analysis techniques, and data interpretation.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software (e.g., R, SAS, SPSS) and research data management.
• Strong understanding of soil-plant-environment interactions and nutrient cycling.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate complex scientific information clearly.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a research team.
• Experience with field experimentation and agricultural research methodologies.
• Familiarity with the agricultural challenges and soil types of the Limpopo province is advantageous.
• Willingness to travel for field research and conferences as required.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary based on qualifications and experience
• Medical aid
• Pension fund
• Research allowances
• Opportunities for professional development, including attending international conferences and post-doctoral studies

This research position is based in Polokwane, Limpopo, offering a chance to make a significant contribution to agricultural science and sustainable farming practices in the region.