Crop Scientist - Agricultural Research & Development

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Relocation assistance

Study leave

Hybrid work model

Conference attendance

Facilities access

Employee assistance

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for a Crop Scientist role near Stellenbosch, Western Cape. The position blends field trials, lab analyses, and data interpretation to advance new crop varieties with enhanced yield, disease resistance, and environmental adaptability.

The successful candidate will hold a Master's or Ph.D. in a relevant field, bring 5+ years of research experience, and thrive in a collaborative, innovation-driven environment. Hybrid work and relocation support are available.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Crop Science, Agronomy, Plant Biology, Genetics or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant research experience in crop science or agricultural R&D.
• Strong understanding of experimental design, statistical analysis, and data interpretation.
• Proficiency in field research techniques and laboratory analysis methods.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage field trials for crop performance evaluation and variety testing.
• Conduct laboratory analyses of plant tissues, soil samples, and other agricultural materials.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret data from field trials and laboratory experiments.
• Develop and refine crop management practices to optimize yield, quality, and resource use efficiency.
• Research and apply advanced techniques in plant breeding, genetics, and crop physiology.
• Collaborate with breeders, agronomists, and other scientists to achieve research objectives.
• Prepare detailed research reports, scientific publications, and presentations.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and ethical research standards.
• Assist in the development of new research methodologies and technologies.
• Stay current with scientific literature and advancements in crop science and agricultural R&D.

Skills

Plant science

Agronomy

Genetics

Research experience

Education

Master's or PhD in Crop Science/ Agronomy/ Plant Biology/ Genetics

Tools

Crop modeling software

Bioinformatics tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading agricultural research and development organization based near Stellenbosch, Western Cape, is seeking a dedicated and innovative Crop Scientist. This role offers a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for focused fieldwork and laboratory analysis alongside remote opportunities for data interpretation and report writing. You will be instrumental in conducting field trials, laboratory experiments, and data analysis to develop new crop varieties and improve existing ones, focusing on traits such as yield, disease resistance, and environmental adaptability. The ideal candidate possesses a strong scientific background in plant science, agronomy, or genetics, combined with practical research experience. You will contribute to advancing agricultural productivity and sustainability, playing a vital role in developing solutions for the challenges facing modern agriculture. This is an excellent opportunity to join a reputable institution committed to scientific excellence and innovation in the agricultural sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage field trials for crop performance evaluation and variety testing.
• Conduct laboratory analyses of plant tissues, soil samples, and other agricultural materials.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret data from field trials and laboratory experiments.
• Develop and refine crop management practices to optimize yield, quality, and resource use efficiency.
• Research and apply advanced techniques in plant breeding, genetics, and crop physiology.
• Collaborate with breeders, agronomists, and other scientists to achieve research objectives.
• Prepare detailed research reports, scientific publications, and presentations.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and ethical research standards.
• Assist in the development of new research methodologies and technologies.
• Stay current with scientific literature and advancements in crop science and agricultural R&D.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Crop Science, Agronomy, Plant Biology, Genetics, or a related agricultural science field.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant research experience in crop science or agricultural R&D.
• Strong understanding of experimental design, statistical analysis, and data interpretation.
• Proficiency in field research techniques and laboratory analysis methods.
• Experience with crop modeling software and bioinformatics tools is desirable.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.
• Experience with hybrid work models and remote collaboration tools.
• A strong commitment to agricultural innovation and sustainability.
• Knowledge of crops relevant to the South African context is an advantage.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and opportunities for merit-based increases.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund.
• Generous paid time off and study leave for professional development.
• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and equipment.
• Hybrid work model providing flexibility.
• Opportunities to publish research and attend scientific conferences.
• A stimulating research environment with a focus on innovation.
• Contribution to significant advancements in agriculture.
• Relocation assistance for suitable candidates.
• Employee assistance program.