Researcher (Plant Breeding)

The Agricultural Research Council; Potchefstroom; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A research institution in Potchefstroom is seeking a Researcher responsible for managing and conducting research projects in plant breeding. The role includes research planning, project management, and strategic collaboration. Candidates must possess a PhD or MSc in Plant Breeding, have a strong publication track record, and a valid EB driver’s licence. This position offers a competitive remuneration package in line with responsibilities and is subject to security clearance.

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc Degree (Plant Breeding) with 3 to 5 peer reviewed publications.
• Proven track record for generating external income for research projects.
• Valid EB driver’s licence.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research planning and initiation.
• Manage project human resources and finances.
• Support strategic research collaboration.

Skills

Mentoring students

Generating external income for research

Plant breeding knowledge

Education

PhD or MSc Degree in Plant Breeding

Registration with a scientific and professional body

Job description

Project Management & Coordination

The Researcher is responsible for conducting research projects across the Institute; these include the following aspects of the projects:

• Research planning and initiation.
• Equipment and Research Materials.
• Project Human Resources.
• Project Finances.
• Risk Management and Mitigation.
• Monitoring, Evaluation, reporting and project close out.

Research, Development, and Innovation

The Researcher is responsible for conducting research, development and supporting innovation. These include supporting the following research aspects:

• Invention.
• Translation.
• Commercialization.
• Adoption and Use.

Research Collaboration

The Researcher is responsible for supporting strategic research collaboration and collaboration opportunities. These include:

• Strategic Research partnerships / networks / collaborators.
• Intra-Inter Institutional Collaboration & Partnerships.

Human Capacity Building

The Researcher is responsible for supporting Human Capacity Development that includes support of:

• Project staff and students.
• Self.

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc Degree (Plant Breeding) with 3 to 5 peer reviewed publications.
• Registration with a scientific and professional body will be added advantage.
• Proven track record for generating external income for research projects.
• Experience in mentoring students.
• Valid EB driver’s licence.

Enquiries: Dr K Mashingaidze, Tel: [phone]

CLOSING DATE: 13 February 2026

A competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance and preference will be given to designated groups in terms of ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes to Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent (3) contactable referees. Certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver’s license must be attached.

A SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. The organisation reserves the right not to appoint.