Agricultural Scientist – Soil Fertility and Nutrition

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Leadership opportunities in research

State-of-the-art lab facilities

Professional development support

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch invites an accomplished Agricultural Scientist specializing in Soil Fertility and Nutrition to lead soil health research and practical fertilization strategies. You will design field and laboratory trials, analyze soil and plant samples, and collaborate with farmers and agronomists to translate findings into actionable recommendations.

This role offers a competitive package, access to state-of-the-art facilities, ongoing professional development, and potential

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master's in Soil Science, Agronomy, Plant Nutrition or closely related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of research experience in soil fertility and plant nutrition with strong publications.
• Extensive knowledge of soil chemistry, physics and biology.
• Experience designing and executing agricultural field trials and laboratory experiments.
• Proficiency in advanced analytical techniques (ICP, AA, spectrophotometry).
• Strong statistics skills with R and SAS.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; ability to present complex data clearly.
• Independent work capability and leadership in research projects.
• GIS experience is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Designing and conducting field and laboratory experiments related to soil fertility and plant nutrition.
• Analyzing soil and plant tissue samples to assess nutrient status and identify deficiencies or toxicities.
• Developing and validating optimized fertilization programs for various crops.
• Investigating the impact of soil amendments and management practices on soil health and crop performance.
• Utilizing advanced analytical techniques and instrumentation for soil and plant analysis.
• Interpreting experimental data and generating comprehensive scientific reports.
• Collaborating with farmers, agronomists, and stakeholders to disseminate research findings.
• Staying abreast of the latest literature and tech in soil science and plant nutrition.
• Contributing to grant proposals and seeking funding for research projects.
• Ensuring compliance with laboratory safety standards and research protocols.

Skills

Soil chemistry

Soil physics

Soil biology

Field trial design

Statistical analysis (R,SAS)

Analytical methods (ICP, AA, spectroph

Scientific communication

Independent work

GIS

Driver's license

Education

Ph.D. in Soil Science

Master's in Soil Science / Agronomy

Tools

N/A

Job description

Our client, a pioneering agricultural research and development organization located in the heart of the winelands in Stellenbosch, Western Cape , is seeking an accomplished Agricultural Scientist specializing in Soil Fertility and Nutrition. This role is pivotal in advancing sustainable agriculture through in-depth research and practical application of soil science principles. The successful candidate will lead research projects focused on soil health, nutrient management, and the development of innovative fertilization strategies to enhance crop productivity and environmental sustainability. You will collaborate with a team of experts, analyze complex data, and translate findings into actionable recommendations for the agricultural sector. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research within the vibrant agricultural landscape of the Western Cape, South Africa . We are looking for a highly analytical and scientifically rigorous individual with a passion for improving soil health and agricultural outputs. Your work will directly impact farming practices and contribute to more efficient and environmentally sound food production systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Designing and conducting field and laboratory experiments related to soil fertility and plant nutrition.
• Analyzing soil and plant tissue samples to assess nutrient status and identify deficiencies or toxicities.
• Developing and validating optimized fertilization programs for various crops.
• Investigating the impact of different soil amendments and management practices on soil health and crop performance.
• Utilizing advanced analytical techniques and instrumentation for soil and plant analysis.
• Interpreting experimental data and generating comprehensive scientific reports.
• Collaborating with farmers, agronomists, and other stakeholders to disseminate research findings and provide technical guidance.
• Staying abreast of the latest scientific literature and technological advancements in soil science and plant nutrition.
• Contributing to grant proposals and seeking funding for research projects.
• Ensuring compliance with laboratory safety standards and research protocols.

Requirements

• A Ph.D. or Master's degree in Soil Science, Agronomy, Plant Nutrition, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of research experience in soil fertility and plant nutrition, with a strong publication record.
• Extensive knowledge of soil chemistry, physics, and biology.
• Proven experience in designing and executing agricultural field trials and laboratory experiments.
• Proficiency in advanced analytical techniques for soil and plant analysis (e.g., ICP, AA, spectrophotometry).
• Strong statistical analysis skills and experience with relevant software (e.g., R, SAS).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex scientific information clearly.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and lead research projects.
• Experience with GIS and other relevant agricultural technologies is an advantage.
• A passion for sustainable agriculture and improving soil health in the Western Cape region.
• A valid driver's license for site visits and sample collection.

Benefits

• A highly competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities to lead innovative research projects and publish findings.
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and research equipment.
• Professional development support, including conference attendance.
• A stimulating and collaborative research environment.
• Contribution to the advancement of agricultural science in South Africa .
• Generous paid leave and retirement benefits.
• Relocation assistance may be available for exceptional candidates.
• Work within a renowned agricultural research hub.
• Potential for leadership roles in future research initiatives.