MSc Student Bursary: Agricultural Mechanization

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

Job summary

A leading agricultural research organization is seeking a motivated individual for a research role focused on agricultural mechanisation, agro-processing, and precision agriculture in Pretoria. Responsibilities include conducting research, supporting postgraduate projects, engaging with stakeholders, and writing reports. The candidate must hold a BSc in Agricultural Engineering or an equivalent qualification and possess strong communication skills. A competitive package is offered, with a commitment to equitable employment practices.

Qualifications

• Strong academic background and motivation required.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Willingness to travel to farming communities.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on agricultural mechanisation, agro-processing, and precision agriculture.
• Provide research support to affiliated postgraduate research projects.
• Engage with stakeholders within affiliated research projects.
• Collect, process, and interpret data, making internal recommendations.
• Write reports, policy briefs, and scientific articles.

Skills

Research Skills

Communication Skills

Data Analysis

Education

BSc degree in Agricultural Engineering or equivalent

Job description

Enquiries: Dr Sipho Sibanda, Tel: [phone]

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 20 JANUARY 2026

• Conduct research on agricultural mechanisation, agro-processing and precision agriculture.
• Provide research support to agricultural mechanisation, agro-processing and precision agriculture research projects as the affiliated postgraduate student.
• Engage with relevant stakeholders within affiliated research projects.
• Collect, process, and interpret data, and make internal project recommendations.
• Write reports, policy briefs, and scientific articles based on research findings.

• BSc degree in Agricultural Engineering or equivalent.
• Applicants should be highly motivated graduates with a strong academic background
• Good communication skills (written and verbal).
• Must be willing to travel to farming communities and remote areas for intermediate periods.

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 (as well as competency and leadership assessments).

Preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

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

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. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months’ probation period. The organisation reserves the right not to appoint.