Lead Plant Pathology Scientist – Crop Disease & Field Trials

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Generous leave policy

Laboratory facilities

Professional development

Retirement fund

Conference support

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Senior Plant Pathologist to spearhead crop-disease research in the Pietermaritzburg region. The role combines lab work, field trials, and stakeholder collaboration to translate findings into practical disease management strategies.

The candidate will lead a team of researchers, publish in reputable journals, and drive innovation in plant health and food security. Hybrid work and travel are part of the role.

Qualifications

• PhD in Plant Pathology, Agronomy, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of research experience in plant pathology and crop diseases.
• Proven track record of leading research projects and publishing in reputable journals.
• Expertise in plant disease diagnosis, epidemiology, and management for major regional crops.
• Proficiency in laboratory techniques including microscopy, culturing, and molecular diagnostics (PCR/qPCR).
• Experience designing field experiments and performing statistical analysis of agricultural data.
• Strong leadership and communication skills; able to mentor staff and present findings clearly.
• Willingness to travel for field research and conferences.

Responsibilities

• Lead research projects on identification, characterization, and epidemiology of plant pathogens.
• Develop and implement integrated disease management strategies (biological and chemical).
• Conduct laboratory diagnostics and molecular identification of pathogens.
• Design and execute field trials to evaluate treatments and identify resistant germplasm.
• Analyze data and prepare reports and scientific publications.
• Collaborate with scientists, extension agents, and farmers to disseminate findings.
• Supervise and mentor junior researchers, technicians, and students.
• Manage research budgets and resources effectively.
• Stay current with advancements through literature reviews and conferences.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations in lab and field settings.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Plant pathology

Molecular diagnostics

Statistical analysis

Education

PhD in Plant Pathology / Agronomy / related field

Tools

Microscopy

Culturing

Molecular diagnostics

Job description

Placements24 is recruiting a Senior Plant Pathologist to spearhead crop-disease research in the Pietermaritzburg region. The role combines lab work, field trials, and stakeholder collaboration to translate findings into practical disease management strategies.

The candidate will lead a team of researchers, publish in reputable journals, and drive innovation in plant health and food security. Hybrid work and travel are part of the role.