Plant Pathologist - Agricultural Research

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 550,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, is seeking a highly qualified Plant Pathologist to join their research team. The role focuses on identifying, diagnosing, and managing plant diseases affecting key crops, with field and laboratory work and collaboration with growers and stakeholders.

The successful candidate will conduct research, develop disease management strategies, prepare reports, and contribute to sustainable agriculture in South Africa. A Master’s or Ph.D.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Plant Pathology, Botany, Agronomy, or related plant science discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in plant pathology research or applied plant disease management.
• Proven expertise in identifying plant pathogens (fungi, bacteria, viruses, nematodes).
• Strong knowledge of plant disease epidemiology, host-pathogen interactions, and disease control principles.
• Experience in designing and conducting field and laboratory experiments.
• Proficiency in data analysis and scientific writing.
• Excellent diagnostic skills and attention to detail.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Familiarity with agricultural practices and common crop diseases in Mpumalanga is desirable.
• A valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Identify and diagnose plant diseases through field observations and lab analyses.
• Design and execute field trials to test new control agents and management practices.
• Collect, analyze and interpret data from plant disease surveys and experiments.
• Provide technical advice and extension services to farmers and agricultural advisors.
• Prepare scientific reports, research papers and conference presentations.
• Maintain laboratory facilities and collaborate with researchers on crop management programs.

Skills

Diagnostic skills

Data analysis

Scientific writing

Communication skills

Field & lab work

Education

Master's or PhD in Plant Pathology or related

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading agricultural research institute situated in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, is seeking a highly qualified Plant Pathologist to join their dedicated team. This role is crucial for identifying, diagnosing, and managing plant diseases that affect key agricultural crops in the Mpumalanga region and beyond. The Plant Pathologist will conduct research, develop disease management strategies, and provide expert advice to growers and stakeholders. This position offers a significant opportunity to contribute to crop health and agricultural sustainability in South Africa through scientific investigation and practical application.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and diagnose plant diseases affecting various crops through field observations and laboratory analyses.
• Conduct research to understand the biology, epidemiology, and etiology of plant pathogens.
• Develop and evaluate effective disease management strategies, including cultural, biological, and chemical control methods.
• Design and execute field trials to test new control agents and management practices.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret data related to plant disease surveys and experiments.
• Provide technical advice and extension services to farmers, agricultural advisors, and industry partners on disease management.
• Stay abreast of emerging plant disease issues and regulatory changes.
• Prepare scientific reports, research papers, and presentations for conferences and publications.
• Maintain laboratory facilities and equipment in good working order.
• Collaborate with other researchers, plant breeders, and agronomists on integrated crop management programs.

Requirements

• A Master's or Ph.D. degree in Plant Pathology, Botany, Agronomy, or a related plant science discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in plant pathology research or applied plant disease management.
• Proven expertise in identifying plant pathogens (fungi, bacteria, viruses, nematodes).
• Strong knowledge of plant disease epidemiology, host-pathogen interactions, and disease control principles.
• Experience in designing and conducting field and laboratory experiments.
• Proficiency in data analysis and scientific writing.
• Excellent diagnostic skills and attention to detail.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Familiarity with agricultural practices and common crop diseases in the Mpumalanga region is highly desirable.
• A valid driver's license.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid and a retirement fund.
• Opportunities for professional development, including further research collaborations and attendance at international symposia, will be provided.

This role offers the chance to work on critical research impacting the health and productivity of South Africa's agricultural sector. You will be part of a respected research institution dedicated to advancing agricultural science in Nelspruit. Join us and contribute to the vital field of plant disease management and protection in the Mpumalanga province.