Researcher (3 Years Contract) (Roodeplaat)

Agricultural Research Council; Roodepoort; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research organization is seeking a Researcher in Roodeplaat, Gauteng, with expertise in plant taxonomy and botany. The ideal candidate will hold a PhD or MSc and have experience in herbarium practices, report writing, and mentoring students. Responsibilities include managing research projects, collaborating on national and international research, and contributing to scientific publications. A valid Driver’s license Code 8 or 10 is required. The role offers a 3-year contract, focusing on impactful research outcomes.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years’ post MSc relevant work experience.
• A publication record with a minimum of 2 scientific publications.
• Record of presenting research at national/international conferences.

Responsibilities

• Mentor and supervise postgraduate students in relevant fields.
• Initiate and manage research collaborations.
• Manage data and conduct advanced analysis.

Skills

Strong knowledge of plant anatomy, morphology, and taxonomy

Fieldwork experience

Report writing

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Experience with proposal writing

Education

PhD or MSc in Plant Taxonomy, Botany, Systematics or related fields

Tools

Taxonomic databases (e.g., BRAHMS platforms)

Job description

Job title: Researcher (3 Years Contract) (Roodeplaat)

Job Location: Gauteng, Roodepoort

Deadline: December 24, 2025

Description

• Strong knowledge of plant anatomy, morphology, and taxonomy.
• Familiarity with Southern African flora.
• Experience in herbarium practices and specimen curation.
• Ability to use dichotomous keys and identification tools.
• Proficiency in botanical nomenclature and the ICN (International Code of Nomenclature).
• Fieldwork experience in diverse South African ecosystems.
• Report writing and scientific publication skills (publishes semi-scientific and peer reviewed articles and publishes in journals with a high impact factor).
• Use of taxonomic databases (e.g., BRAHMS platforms).
• Mentor and supervise postgraduate students (MSc / PhD) inPlant Taxonomy, Botany, Systematics or related fields.
• Initiate and manage national and international research collaborations and partnerships.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Manages data, captures and shows advanced analysis, interpretation, and recommendations.
• Complies with all occupational health and safety regulations.

Requirements

• PhD or MSc with a minimum of 3 years’ post MSc relevant work experience in Plant Taxonomy, Botany, Systematics or related fields.
• A publication record with a minimum of 2 scientific publications already published with a record of additional work in progress.
• Record of presenting research at national and / or international conferences.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience with proposal writing, field-based research, and stakeholder coordination.
• Proven record of generating research funding and collaborations.
• Proven experience in working with large teams and on multiple projects at the same time.
• Proven track record of PhD and / or MSc student supervision in relevant fields of study.
• Must have a Driver’s license Code 8 or 10.