Plant Pathologist — Field Disease Research & Management

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

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.