Specialist Researcher Plant Breeding

Agricultural Research Council; Roodepoort; On-site; ZAR 1 200 000 - 1 500 000; Full time

Job summary

A national agricultural research organization in Roodepoort seeks a research leader in Plant Breeding. The role involves strategic planning, managing research initiatives, and mentoring. Candidates should have a PhD in Plant Breeding or a related field, over 8 years of experience, and a proven track record in research management, partnerships, and generating funding. This position is crucial for advancing research and development in crop production and requires an individual with strong leadership skills and a commitment to capacity development.

Qualifications

• PhD or DSc in Plant Breeding, Biotechnology or related discipline.
• More than 8 years of relevant experience at a similar level.
• Track record of research management in Crop Protection.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic planning for the research programme in Plant Breeding.
• Manage technology transfer initiatives across commodities.
• Develop and mentor staff and students.

Skills

Research management

Strategic planning

Mentoring students

Building partnerships

Education

PhD or DSc in Plant Breeding or Biotechnology

Job description

Job Location: Roodepoort, Gauteng, South Africa Application Deadline: January 31, 2026

Description

• Strategic planning and positioning of research programme in Plant Breeding, nationally and internationally.
• Providing scientific leadership in research, development and innovation in the field of Plant Breeding of seed, fruit and leafy vegetable crops in multi‑disciplinary teams.
• Managing all technology transfer initiatives of the multidisciplinary team across the commodities, leading the generation and commercialization of Intellectual Property.
• Human Capacity Development that includes outputs of mentoring and developing others (internal staff) and developing self.
• Safety, health, and environment.
• Scientific Status of the Research environment.

Requirements

• PhD or DSc in Plant Breeding, Biotechnology or related discipline.
• More than 8 years post PhD experience and/or 8 years of relevant experience on a similar level.
• Proven track record of research management in at least one of the Crop Protection related areas, with working knowledge of the other areas in Crop Protection.
• Minimum 25 peer reviewed publications. Meets peer norm requirements for specific field of expertise, with a minimum (on average) of three peer-reviewed publications per year. Minimum 25 peer reviewed publications at date of appointment.
• Proven track record for generating external income for research programme and projects in programme.
• Proven record of being an invited international speaker or being involved/invited as participant in international events of high importance.
• Proven track record of building national and international partnerships and networks.
• Proven track record of strategic and operational planning skills and expertise.
• Proven track record of mentoring and supervising/supervising MSc and PhD students.
• NRF rating of at least C1 will be an added advantage.
• Registration with a scientific and professional body will be an added advantage.
• Proven recognition as a research leader on a national and international level.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel.

CLOSING DATE FOR THE APPLICATION: 31 JANUARY 2026