Plant Breeder

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 850,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement plan contributions

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Plant Breeder for its R&D team in Soweto, Gauteng. The role combines lab work, controlled environment studies, and field trials in nearby agricultural areas, with a hybrid work arrangement.

You will design breeding programs, apply marker-assisted and genomic selection, analyze data, and collaborate with agronomists to release improved crop varieties. The ideal candidate has a master's or PhD and at least four years' experience in plant breeding, genetics, and data

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Agronomy, or related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of plant breeding experience with crop field trials.
• Strong knowledge of genetics, quantitative genetics, and breeding methodologies.
• Familiarity with molecular breeding techniques and bioinformatics is a plus.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software and data management.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement plant breeding programs for crops with target traits.
• Use traditional and modern methods (marker-assisted, genomic) for improvement.
• Run field trials to evaluate varieties under varying environments.
• Analyze phenotypic/genotypic data.
• Manage breeding nurseries and seed production for experiments.
• Collaborate with agronomists and scientists to meet objectives.
• Maintain records of experiments, pedigrees, and results.
• Support development and release of new varieties.
• Stay updated on advances in plant genetics and breeding.

Skills

Plant breeding

Genetics

Data analysis

Field trials

Statistical software

Education

Master's degree in Plant Breeding / Genetics / Agronomy

PhD in Plant Breeding / Genetics

Tools

Bioinformatics tools

Molecular breeding tools

Statistical software (R, SAS)

Job description

About the Role

Our client is at the forefront of agricultural innovation and is seeking a talented Plant Breeder to join their research and development team in **Soweto, Gauteng**. This role is pivotal in developing new and improved crop varieties with enhanced traits such as higher yield, disease resistance, and improved nutritional value. You will utilize advanced breeding techniques, conduct field trials, and analyze genetic data to accelerate crop improvement programs. The position involves a hybrid work arrangement, with a combination of laboratory work, controlled environment studies, and field trials conducted in agricultural areas surrounding **Soweto**.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement plant breeding programs for specific crops, focusing on desired traits.
• Utilize traditional breeding methods and modern biotechnological tools (e.g., marker-assisted selection, genomic selection) for crop improvement.
• Conduct field trials to evaluate new varieties under different environmental conditions.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret phenotypic and genotypic data.
• Manage breeding nurseries and seed production for experimental lines.
• Collaborate with agronomists, pathologists, and other scientists to achieve breeding objectives.
• Maintain detailed records of breeding experiments, pedigrees, and trial results.
• Contribute to the development and release of new crop varieties.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in plant genetics and breeding technologies.

Requirements

• A Master's or PhD degree in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Agronomy, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in plant breeding, including practical experience with crop field trials.
• Strong knowledge of plant genetics, quantitative genetics, and breeding methodologies.
• Familiarity with molecular breeding techniques and bioinformatics tools is a plus.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software and data management.
• Excellent observational skills and attention to detail in experimental design and execution.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a hybrid work setting.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to travel to field trial sites within **Soweto, Gauteng**.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid and retirement plan contributions. This role provides unique opportunities for research, innovation, and career advancement in plant science. The hybrid work model offers flexibility. Contribute to enhancing food security and agricultural productivity through cutting-edge plant breeding in **Gauteng**.