Horticultural Scientist, Crop Physiology & Growth Research

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and benefits

Medical, dental, and retirement plans

Professional development and training

Access to world-class facilities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Horticultural Scientist specialized in Crop Physiology to lead physiological research on horticultural crops at a premier agricultural research facility. You will design controlled experiments, analyze complex data, and help develop cultivation techniques and crop improvement strategies.

You will publish findings in peer-reviewed journals, collaborate with breeders and agronomists, and mentor junior staff while contributing to high-impact research near Durban.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Plant Physiology, Horticultural Science, Agronomy, or a closely related field.
• Post-doctoral research experience or a minimum of 5 years in horticultural crop physiology.
• Proven track record of independent research and publishing in reputable journals.
• Expertise in experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation of physiological data.
• Hands-on experience with physiological measurement techniques (gas exchange, chlorophyll fluorescence, nutrient analysis).
• Knowledge of plant molecular biology is advantageous.
• Strong written and verbal communication; capable of working in a multidisciplinary team.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and manage controlled experiments on crop physiology (photosynthesis, respiration, nutrient uptake, water relations).
• Collect, analyze, and interpret physiological data using statistical methods and software.
• Develop and test hypotheses on crop growth, development, and stress responses.
• Contribute to breeding programs and cultivation practices with physiological insights.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication and present findings at conferences.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and manage resources efficiently.
• Mentor junior researchers and technicians.

Skills

Experimental design

Data analysis

Communication skills

Education

Ph.D. in Plant Physiology or closely related field

Tools

R

SAS

Job description

Placements24 seeks a Horticultural Scientist specialized in Crop Physiology to lead physiological research on horticultural crops at a premier agricultural research facility. You will design controlled experiments, analyze complex data, and help develop cultivation techniques and crop improvement strategies.

You will publish findings in peer-reviewed journals, collaborate with breeders and agronomists, and mentor junior staff while contributing to high-impact research near Durban.