Horticultural Research Scientist

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybride; ZAR 900 000 - 1 200 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Paid time off

Hybrid work model

Conference attendance

Résumé du poste

Placements24 in Bloemfontein seeks a Horticultural Research Scientist to lead advanced crop improvement projects, from design to field trials and data analysis.

You will develop climate-resilient varieties, optimize irrigation and nutrient strategies, and publish findings while collaborating with growers, researchers, and industry partners. Hybrid work model offered; strong focus on impactful horticultural research in South Africa.

Qualifications

• PhD in horticulture or related field with strong research background.
• Post-doctoral experience in horticulture and publications in journals.
• Experience with experimental design, field trials, and data analysis.

Responsabilités

• Design, conduct and manage field/lab experiments on crop improvement.
• Develop new cultivation techniques, including irrigation and nutrients.
• Research plant breeding and genetics for climate-resilient varieties.
• Analyze data using statistical tools (R/SAS) and interpret results.
• Publish findings and present at conferences; collaborate with partners.
• Oversee junior researchers and coordinate field teams.
• Manage budgets, resources and grant applications.
• Ensure safety, ethical and regulatory compliance in research.

Connaissances

Experimental design

Field research

Statistical analysis

Formation

PhD in Horticulture, Plant Science, Agronomy

Outils

R

SAS

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a leading agricultural research institute, is seeking an innovative and dedicated Horticultural Research Scientist to join their team based in Bloemfontein, Free State . This position focuses on conducting advanced research in horticulture, with a specific emphasis on developing new crop varieties, optimizing cultivation techniques, and addressing challenges related to climate change and pest management in the region. The scientist will be involved in all stages of research, from experimental design and field trials to data analysis and publication. This role is critical for driving innovation in horticultural production and ensuring the sustainability and profitability of the sector in Free State . The ideal candidate will have a strong scientific background, excellent research methodologies, and a passion for contributing to horticultural advancement.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, conduct, and manage field and laboratory experiments related to horticultural crop improvement and production.
• Investigate and develop new or improved horticultural cultivation techniques, including sustainable practices, irrigation strategies, and nutrient management.
• Conduct research on plant breeding and genetics to develop new varieties with desirable traits such as yield, disease resistance, quality, and climate resilience.
• Analyze experimental data using statistical methods and relevant software (e.g., R, SAS).
• Interpret research findings and translate them into practical recommendations for growers and industry stakeholders.
• Prepare scientific manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals and present research findings at national and international conferences.
• Collaborate with other scientists, researchers, extension agents, and industry partners on joint research projects.
• Oversee junior researchers, technicians, and field staff involved in research activities.
• Manage research budgets, resources, and grant applications.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety, ethical, and regulatory standards in research activities.

Requirements

• A PhD in Horticulture, Plant Science, Agronomy, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral research experience in horticulture.
• Demonstrated experience in experimental design, field research, and statistical data analysis.
• Proven track record of scientific publications in reputable journals.
• Strong knowledge of plant physiology, genetics, breeding, and crop production systems.
• Experience with specific horticultural crops relevant to the South African context is highly desirable.
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem‑solving skills.
• Proficiency in relevant research software and databases.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex scientific information clearly.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research team environment.
• Willingness to travel for field research and conferences.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package with opportunities for advancement and research grants.
• The benefits include comprehensive medical aid, a retirement fund, and generous paid time off.
• This role provides significant opportunities for professional growth, attending international conferences, and contributing to impactful horticultural research in Bloemfontein .
• The hybrid work model allows for flexibility in managing research activities.