Senior Agricultural Research Scientist - Plant Breeding

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement fund

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Research funding

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Agricultural Research Scientist (Plant Breeding) to lead advanced breeding programs in Kimberley, Northern Cape. You will apply genetics, molecular biology, and quantitative genetics to develop drought- and disease-resistant crops suited to local conditions.

The role demands oversight of field trials, data analysis, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, with a strong emphasis on publishing results and securing research funding.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Agronomy, or related field with crop improvement focus.
• Minimum 7 years post-doctoral research in plant breeding with proven release track record.
• Extensive knowledge of quantitative genetics and breeding methodologies.
• Proficiency in SAS and R for genetic analysis; experience with bioinformatics.
• Experience with marker-assisted selection and genotyping.
• Strong scientific writing, communication, and leadership abilities.

Responsibilities

• Design and lead plant breeding programs for local Northern Cape conditions.
• Use MAS and GS to accelerate breeding cycles.
• Conduct field trials to evaluate new lines for yield and stress tolerance.
• Analyze phenotypic/genotypic data to identify desirable genes.
• Collaborate with pathologists, entomologists, and agronomists on disease resistance goals.
• Mentor junior researchers and ensure biosafety compliance.

Skills

Quantitative genetics

Statistical analysis

Molecular breeding

Scientific writing

Leadership

Education

Ph.D. in Plant Breeding/Genetics/Agronomy

Tools

SAS

R

Genotyping tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned agricultural research institution, is seeking an accomplished Senior Agricultural Research Scientist specializing in Plant Breeding to join their innovative team in Kimberley, Northern Cape . This role is central to developing new crop varieties with enhanced yield, disease resistance, and climate resilience, crucial for addressing food security challenges. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of genetics, molecular biology, and quantitative genetics, coupled with significant experience in breeding programs for staple crops. You will have the opportunity to lead cutting edge research and contribute significantly to the advancement of agricultural science. We are committed to fostering a collaborative and research intensive environment.

Key Responsibilities

Design and implement comprehensive plant breeding programs to develop superior crop varieties suited for local conditions in Northern Cape . Utilize advanced genetic and molecular techniques, including marker-assisted selection (MAS) and genomic selection (GS), to accelerate breeding cycles. Conduct field trials to evaluate the performance of new breeding lines for key agronomic traits, yield potential, and stress tolerance (e.g., drought, heat). Analyze phenotypic and genotypic data using statistical software and bioinformatics tools to identify desirable genes and breeding strategies. Collaborate with plant pathologists, entomologists, and agronomists to integrate pest and disease resistance into breeding objectives. Manage experimental data, maintain detailed records, and ensure the integrity of research findings. Author scientific publications, present research results at national and international conferences, and contribute to grant proposals. Supervise and mentor junior researchers, technicians, and students involved in breeding projects. Ensure compliance with biosafety regulations and ethical standards in all research activities.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Agronomy, or a related field with a strong focus on crop improvement.
• Minimum of 7 years of post-doctoral research experience in plant breeding, with a proven track record of developing and releasing new crop varieties.
• Extensive knowledge of quantitative genetics, breeding methodologies, and experimental design.
• Proficiency in using statistical software (e.g., SAS, R) and bioinformatics tools for genetic analysis.
• Experience with molecular breeding techniques (e.g., marker-assisted selection, genotyping).
• Excellent scientific writing, communication, and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated leadership ability and experience in managing research projects and teams.
• Familiarity with the specific challenges and opportunities in dryland agriculture is advantageous.
• Ability to work effectively in both field and laboratory settings.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health insurance, a generous retirement fund, and opportunities for professional development and research funding. This hybrid role provides flexibility, allowing for impactful on-site work at our research facilities in Kimberley and remote research planning and analysis. Join a team at the forefront of agricultural innovation, contribute to developing resilient crop varieties, and advance your career in a dynamic research environment.