PhD 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 in Pretoria is seeking a motivated MSc graduate in Agricultural Engineering to conduct research on agricultural mechanisation, agro-processing, and precision agriculture. The role involves providing support to research projects and engaging with stakeholders. Strong communication skills and a willingness to travel to remote farming communities are essential. A competitive remuneration package is offered, subject to security clearance. Applications close on 03 February 2026.

Qualifications

• Highly motivated graduates with a strong academic background are preferred.
• Willingness to travel to farming communities and remote areas for intermediate periods is required.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on agricultural mechanisation, agro-processing and precision agriculture.
• Provide research support to projects as a postgraduate student.
• Engage with stakeholders in research projects.

Skills

Strong analytical skills

Good communication skills (written and verbal)

Education

MSc degree in Agricultural Engineering or equivalent

Job description

Responsibilities

• 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

Qualifications

• MSc degree in Agricultural Engineering or equivalent with emphasis on either agricultural mechanisation, agro-processing or precision agriculture
• 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

Contact Information

Enquiries: Dr Sipho Sibanda, Tel: [phone]

Application Closing Date

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 03 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 (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.