Senior Crop Scientist - Field Research

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Crop Scientist to lead field research near Klerksdorp, North West, focusing on crop genetics, cultivation techniques, and resilience.

You will design trials, analyze data, mentor junior staff, and translate findings into practical strategies to boost productivity and support food security in the North West.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Crop Science, Agronomy, Plant Biology, or related field.
• Minimum 6 years of research experience with strong field experimentation.
• Expertise in crop physiology, genetics, and statistical analysis.
• Proven ability to design and manage complex field trials.
• Experience with agricultural software and data management systems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; able to present findings.

Responsibilities

• Design, conduct, and manage field trials for new crop varieties.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret data on crop performance and yield.
• Develop crop management protocols for optimal growth and yield.
• Evaluate biotic/abiotic stresses and mitigation strategies.
• Collaborate with breeders and geneticists on promising germplasm.
• Contribute to scientific publications and technical reports.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior researchers and techs.
• Ensure adherence to protocols, data integrity, and compliance.
• Maintain detailed records of all research activities.

Skills

Field experimentation

Crop physiology

Genetics

Statistical analysis

Data management

Team mentorship

Education

Master's or PhD in Crop Science/related field

Tools

Agricultural software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural research and development firm with significant operations near Klerksdorp, North West , is seeking an experienced Senior Crop Scientist to lead critical field research initiatives. This role focuses on advancing crop genetics, optimizing cultivation techniques, and enhancing crop resilience to environmental stressors prevalent in the region. You will be responsible for designing and executing rigorous field trials, analyzing experimental data, and translating findings into actionable strategies for improving agricultural productivity. The ideal candidate will have a profound understanding of plant physiology, genetics, and agronomy, with a proven ability to manage research projects from conception to completion. This is a key position for someone passionate about agricultural innovation and committed to contributing to the food security and economic development of the North West province. You will work closely with a team of researchers, agronomists, and farm technicians, driving progress in crop science. We are looking for a scientifically minded individual capable of leading complex research and ensuring the development of superior crop varieties and farming methods.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, conduct, and manage field trials for new crop varieties and agricultural inputs.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret data on crop performance, yield, quality, and environmental factors.
• Develop and refine crop management protocols for optimal growth and yield.
• Evaluate the impact of biotic and abiotic stresses on crop development and implement mitigation strategies.
• Collaborate with plant breeders and geneticists to assess and select promising germplasm.
• Contribute to the development of scientific publications and technical reports.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior research staff and field technicians.
• Ensure adherence to experimental protocols, data integrity, and regulatory compliance.
• Maintain detailed records of all research activities and findings.

Requirements

• Master's or PhD degree in Crop Science, Agronomy, Plant Biology, or a related agricultural science field.
• Minimum of 6 years of relevant research experience, with a strong emphasis on field experimentation.
• Demonstrated expertise in crop physiology, genetics, and statistical analysis of agricultural data.
• Proven ability to design and execute complex field trials and manage research projects.
• Experience with common agricultural software and data management systems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, suitable for scientific reporting and presentations.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.
• Must be able to work in outdoor field conditions and travel within the Klerksdorp, North West region.
• Familiarity with the agricultural challenges and crops of the North West province is preferred.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance and retirement contributions, and significant opportunities for professional development. This role provides access to advanced research facilities and the chance to contribute to impactful agricultural innovations. Join a respected organization dedicated to pushing the boundaries of crop science and sustainable agriculture. We value scientific curiosity and provide a supportive environment for career growth within the agricultural research sector.