Agricultural Scientist - Crop Physiology & Development

Placements24; South Africa; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plans

Hybrid work environment

Opportunities for growth

Job summary

Paarl, Western Cape, South Africa: Placements24 is seeking an Agricultural Scientist specializing in Crop Physiology and Development. The role involves designing field and laboratory experiments, analyzing plant responses, and contributing to new crop varieties to improve yields and resilience.

The position offers a hybrid work arrangement, with collaboration across researchers and breeders, and opportunities for publication and professional growth.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Plant Physiology, Crop Science, Agronomy, or related field.
• Post-doctoral research experience in crop physiology or development (≥4 years).
• Strong design, data analysis, and scientific writing skills.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and manage field and lab experiments on crop physiology and development.
• Investigate plant responses to water, temperature, light, and nutrients.
• Analyze growth patterns, reproductive biology, and physiology.
• Utilize physiological measurements and molecular biology tools for data collection.
• Evaluate new crop varieties for performance and yield potential.
• Collaborate with breeders, agronomists, and scientists on projects.
• Prepare scientific reports, publications, and presentations.
• Contribute to strategies for improving crop productivity and resilience.
• Maintain lab equipment and ensure safety protocols.
• Mentor junior researchers and interns.

Skills

Experimental design

Data analysis

Scientific writing

Communication skills

Presentation skills

Independent work

Team collaboration

Problem-solving

Education

Ph.D. in Plant Physiology / Crop Science / Agronomy

Tools

R / SAS

Molecular biology tools

Greenhouse / Growth chamber equipment

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading agricultural research institution dedicated to advancing crop science, is seeking an innovative Agricultural Scientist specializing in Crop Physiology and Development for their facilities in Paarl, Western Cape, ZA . This role is crucial for driving research into plant growth, development, and stress responses, with the ultimate goal of improving crop yields, resilience, and nutritional value. You will conduct experiments, analyze data, and contribute to the development of new crop varieties and farming techniques. The ideal candidate possesses a strong scientific background, excellent research methodologies, and a passion for applying knowledge to real-world agricultural challenges. This is a rewarding opportunity to contribute to food security and sustainable agriculture.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and manage field and laboratory experiments related to crop physiology and development.
• Investigate plant responses to environmental factors such as water availability, temperature, light, and nutrient levels.
• Analyze plant growth patterns, reproductive biology, and physiological processes.
• Utilize advanced techniques for data collection and analysis, including physiological measurements and molecular biology tools.
• Evaluate new crop varieties for performance, stress tolerance, and yield potential.
• Collaborate with plant breeders, agronomists, and other scientists on research projects.
• Interpret experimental results and prepare comprehensive scientific reports, publications, and presentations.
• Contribute to the development of innovative strategies for improving crop productivity and resilience.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure adherence to safety protocols.
• Mentor junior researchers and interns, providing guidance and technical support.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Plant Physiology, Crop Science, Agronomy, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of post-doctoral research experience in crop physiology or development.
• Demonstrated expertise in experimental design, data analysis (including statistical software like R or SAS), and scientific writing.
• Strong understanding of plant molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry as they relate to crop performance.
• Experience with controlled environment agriculture (e.g., greenhouses, growth chambers) and field trials.
• Proficiency in using physiological measurement equipment and analytical instruments.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a rigorous scientific approach.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research team.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Experience in the agricultural sector of the Western Cape, ZA is beneficial.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including health insurance and retirement plans, and significant opportunities for professional growth and publication.
• You will be part of a vibrant research community focused on innovation and impact.
• This hybrid role allows for a balance between essential laboratory and field research and data analysis from home.
• Join our client in Paarl, Western Cape, ZA , and contribute to the advancement of agricultural science.