Crop Scientist

Placements24; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Research facilities and field stations

Health benefits

Professional development support

Job summary

Placements24 in Port Elizabeth is seeking a highly skilled Crop Scientist to lead R&D initiatives focused on improving yields and resilience in the Eastern Cape. The role combines field trials with laboratory investigations and requires a strong background in plant physiology, genetics, and agronomy.

You will design experiments, manage lab resources, and collaborate with farmers and extension services to translate findings into practical farming solutions for local challenges.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Crop Science, Agronomy, Plant Science, or related discipline.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in crop research, field trials, or plant breeding.
• Proven expertise in plant physiology, genetics, and statistical analysis.
• Experience with data analysis software and research methodologies.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in both laboratory and field settings in Port Elizabeth.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct field and laboratory experiments to evaluate new crop varieties and agronomic practices.
• Analyze plant responses to environmental factors, including water, nutrients, and climate variations.
• Investigate and manage crop diseases, pests, and weed control strategies.
• Collaborate with farmers and agricultural extension services to disseminate research findings and provide technical support.
• Manage laboratory resources, including equipment calibration and data management systems.
• Contribute to the development of sustainable farming systems suited for the Eastern Cape environment.

Skills

Plant physiology

Genetics

Statistics

Data analysis

Scientific communication

Education

Ph.D. in Crop Science

Master's in Crop Science

Tools

R

Python

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly skilled Crop Scientist to lead research and development initiatives focused on improving crop yields and resilience in the Eastern Cape region, based in Port Elizabeth . This role requires a strong scientific background and practical experience in plant physiology, genetics, and agronomy. You will be instrumental in developing and testing new crop varieties and cultivation techniques to address local agricultural challenges. This is a key position for a dedicated scientist committed to advancing sustainable agriculture and food security.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and conduct field and laboratory experiments to evaluate new crop varieties and agronomic practices.
• Analyze plant responses to environmental factors, including water, nutrients, and climate variations.
• Investigate and manage crop diseases, pests, and weed control strategies.
• Collaborate with farmers and agricultural extension services to disseminate research findings and provide technical support.
• Manage laboratory resources, including equipment calibration and data management systems.
• Contribute to the development of sustainable farming systems suited for the Eastern Cape environment.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Crop Science, Agronomy, Plant Science, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in crop research, field trials, or plant breeding.
• Proven expertise in plant physiology, genetics, and statistical analysis of experimental data.
• Experience with data analysis software and research methodologies.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for reporting and collaboration.
• Ability to work effectively in both laboratory and field settings in Port Elizabeth .

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and performance-based incentives.
• Opportunity to work with cutting-edge agricultural research technologies.
• Access to well-equipped research facilities and field stations.
• Comprehensive health benefits and retirement plan.
• Support for professional development, including attendance at scientific conferences.