Crop Improvement Scientist - Hybrid Research & Field Trials

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Retirement plans

Paid time off

Professional development

Conference attendance

State-of-the-art facilities

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch seeks an Agricultural Research Scientist specializing in Crop Improvement to lead cutting-edge work in plant breeding, genetics, and molecular biology. The role combines on‑site laboratory and field research with remote data analysis and report writing.

The ideal candidate holds a Ph.D. with 5+ years post‑doc experience, strong publication history, and proven ability to design field trials and manage research projects in a hybrid environment.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Agronomy, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of post‑doctoral research experience in crop improvement.
• Demonstrated expertise in plant genetics, molecular biology, and quantitative genetics.
• Proven experience in designing and conducting field trials and interpreting results.
• Strong statistical analysis skills and proficiency with software (e.g., R, SAS).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a track record of scientific publications.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a hybrid research environment.
• Experience with grant writing and project management is a plus.
• Proficiency in common laboratory techniques and equipment.
• Passion for agricultural innovation and sustainable crop development.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute research projects focused on improving crop traits such as yield, disease resistance, nutritional value, and stress tolerance.
• Utilize modern plant breeding techniques, including marker‑assisted selection and genomic analysis.
• Conduct laboratory experiments involving plant tissue culture, molecular genetics, and biochemistry.
• Plan and manage field trials to evaluate new crop varieties under various environmental conditions.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret complex biological and agronomic data.
• Prepare research findings for publication in peer‑reviewed journals and presentation at scientific conferences.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams of scientists, agronomists, and technicians.
• Contribute to grant writing and secure research funding.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure adherence to safety protocols.
• Supervise and mentor junior researchers and technical staff.

Skills

Statistical analysis

Written & verbal communication

Independent & collaborative work

Grant writing

Education

Ph.D. in Plant Breeding/Genetics/Agronomy

Tools

R

SAS

Job description

Placements24 in Stellenbosch seeks an Agricultural Research Scientist specializing in Crop Improvement to lead cutting-edge work in plant breeding, genetics, and molecular biology. The role combines on‑site laboratory and field research with remote data analysis and report writing.

The ideal candidate holds a Ph.D. with 5+ years post‑doc experience, strong publication history, and proven ability to design field trials and manage research projects in a hybrid environment.