Plant Pathologist

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 650,000 - 950,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Growth opportunities

Lab facilities

Team support

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Plant Pathologist to join our agricultural R&D team in Polokwane. You will diagnose plant diseases, conduct field and lab research, and develop disease management strategies to protect crops in Limpopo.

The role requires leadership in applying microscopy, culturing, and molecular diagnostics, with strong analytical and scientific writing skills. Collaboration with farmers and extension officers is essential for successful programs.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Plant Pathology or related field.
• Minimum 5 years' experience in plant disease diagnosis and research.
• Experience diagnosing crops common in the Limpopo region.
• Strong lab skills: microscopy, culturing, molecular diagnostics.
• Excellent analytical and scientific writing abilities.

Responsibilities

• Diagnose plant diseases in field and laboratory settings.
• Research the life cycles, epidemiology, and control of plant pathogens.
• Develop disease management strategies using chemical, biological, and cultural controls.
• Collaborate with farmers and extension officers to implement programs.
• Maintain detailed records of research findings and surveys.
• Stay updated on emerging plant diseases and research advancements.

Skills

Plant pathology

Laboratory skills

Analytical thinking

Scientific writing

Education

Master's or PhD in Plant Pathology

Tools

Microscopy

Molecular diagnostics

Culturing techniques

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for an experienced Plant Pathologist to join their agricultural research and development team in Polokwane . This role is essential for identifying, diagnosing, and managing plant diseases that affect crops in the region, thereby protecting agricultural productivity and food security. You will conduct laboratory and field research, develop disease management strategies, and provide expert advice to growers and agricultural stakeholders. The successful candidate will possess a strong scientific background and a passion for agricultural innovation within the diverse farming systems of Limpopo province.

Key Responsibilities

• Diagnose plant diseases in field and laboratory settings using appropriate techniques.
• Conduct research to understand the life cycles, epidemiology, and control of plant pathogens.
• Develop and recommend effective disease management strategies, including chemical, biological, and cultural controls.
• Collaborate with farmers and agricultural extension officers to implement disease management programs.
• Maintain detailed records of research findings, disease surveys, and control recommendations.
• Stay updated on emerging plant diseases and research advancements in plant pathology.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Plant Pathology, Botany, or a related agricultural science discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in plant disease diagnosis and research.
• Proven expertise in identifying common crop diseases affecting crops grown in the Limpopo region.
• Strong laboratory skills, including microscopy, culturing, and molecular diagnostic techniques.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and scientific writing skills.
• Ability to conduct field surveys and communicate complex scientific information effectively to various audiences in Polokwane .

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional growth and publication of research findings.
• Access to advanced laboratory facilities and field research sites.
• A vital role contributing to the health and productivity of agriculture in the Limpopo province.
• Supportive team environment dedicated to agricultural science and innovation.