Plant Pathologist - Disease Management & Research

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Modern laboratory facilities

Professional development

Retirement fund and medical aid

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa’s Free State invites a seasoned Plant Pathologist to join a leading agricultural research and development firm in Welkom. The role focuses on identification, diagnosis, and management of plant diseases affecting key crops, with field trials and lab work.

You will develop disease control strategies, collaborate with researchers, and translate findings into practical solutions for farmers.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Plant Pathology, Botany, or related biological science discipline.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in plant disease diagnosis and management.
• Proven experience in laboratory techniques (microscopy, culturing, molecular diagnostics).
• Familiarity with major crop diseases in the Free State region.
• Strong understanding of host–pathogen interactions and plant physiology.
• Excellent analytical and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Diagnose plant diseases via laboratory analysis and field observation.
• Research epidemiology and life cycles of plant pathogens.
• Develop and evaluate disease control strategies (chemical, biological, cultural).
• Design and implement field trials for new disease management products/techniques.
• Collect and analyze data from experiments and field studies.
• Provide technical support to farmers, agronomists, and extension officers.
• Stay updated on plant pathology advances and technologies.
• Prepare scientific reports, publications, and presentations.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams on agricultural challenges.
• Maintain accurate records of experiments and recommendations.

Skills

Plant pathology knowledge

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Independent and team work

Education

Master's or PhD in Plant Pathology

Botany or related biological sciences

Tools

Microscopy

Culturing

Molecular diagnostics

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading agricultural research and development firm, is seeking a dedicated and experienced Plant Pathologist to join their esteemed team in Welkom, Free State. This crucial role focuses on the identification, diagnosis, and management of plant diseases that affect key agricultural crops in the region. You will be responsible for conducting rigorous scientific research, developing innovative disease control strategies, and providing expert advice to farmers and agricultural stakeholders. This position requires a strong understanding of fungal, bacterial, viral, and nematode pathogens, as well as their interaction with plant hosts and the environment. The ideal candidate possesses a passion for agricultural science, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to translate complex scientific findings into practical, actionable solutions. You will work in well-equipped laboratories and conduct field trials to validate new disease management approaches. This is an opportunity to make a significant contribution to crop protection and agricultural sustainability in the Free State.

Key Responsibilities

• Diagnose plant diseases affecting various agricultural crops through laboratory analysis and field observation.
• Conduct research to understand the epidemiology and life cycles of plant pathogens.
• Develop and evaluate effective disease control strategies, including chemical, biological, and cultural methods.
• Design and implement field trials to test the efficacy of new disease management products and techniques.
• Collect and analyze data from laboratory experiments and field studies.
• Provide technical support and advisory services to farmers, agronomists, and agricultural extension officers.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in plant pathology and disease management technologies.
• Prepare scientific reports, publications, and presentations for internal and external audiences.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary research teams to address complex agricultural challenges.
• Maintain accurate records of experiments, diagnoses, and recommendations.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Plant Pathology, Botany, or a related biological science discipline.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in plant disease diagnosis and management.
• Proven experience in laboratory techniques relevant to plant pathology (e.g., microscopy, culturing, molecular diagnostics).
• Familiarity with agricultural practices and major crop diseases in the Free State region is essential.
• Strong understanding of plant physiology and host-pathogen interactions.
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a research team.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to field sites as needed.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to work with a leading agricultural research organization.
• Access to modern laboratory facilities and advanced research equipment.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Contribute to crop protection and agricultural sustainability initiatives.
• Retirement fund and medical aid options.
• A dynamic and collaborative work environment.