Senior Plant Pathologist

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully paid health insurance

Retirement savings plan

Flexible working hours

Remote-first role

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Our client, a globally recognized leader in agricultural innovation, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Plant Pathologist to join their advanced research division. This remote-first role includes initial onboarding in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, and focuses on diagnosing and managing plant diseases across major crops using molecular and diagnostic tools.

You will develop disease control strategies, work independently in a remote setting, collaborate with breeders and agronomists, and contribute to

Qualifications

• PhD in Plant Pathology, Botany, Microbiology, or related discipline.
• Minimum of 6 years post-doctoral experience in plant pathology research or diagnostics.
• Experience with molecular diagnostic techniques (PCR, qPCR, sequencing).

Responsibilities

• Diagnose plant diseases affecting a wide range of crops using visual, cultural, and molecular methods.
• Conduct laboratory and field research to understand disease epidemiology, pathogen biology, and host-pathogen interactions.
• Develop and validate novel disease control strategies, including biological, chemical, and cultural approaches.
• Provide expert advice and technical support to internal teams and external stakeholders on plant disease management.
• Manage and interpret data from diagnostic assays and research experiments.
• Stay updated on emerging plant disease threats and research trends globally.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate disease management solutions.
• Maintain accurate records of all research activities and diagnostic findings.

Skills

Communication

Independent work

Remote collaboration

Education

PhD in Plant Pathology / Botany / Microbiology

Tools

PCR

qPCR

Sequencing

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in agricultural innovation, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Plant Pathologist to join their advanced research division, operating remotely with initial onboarding in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This critical role will focus on the identification, diagnosis, and management of plant diseases impacting key agricultural sectors. You will be at the forefront of developing innovative disease control strategies and contributing to the resilience of global food supplies. The position requires a deep understanding of fungal, bacterial, viral, and nematode pathogens, as well as their interaction with host plants and the environment. You will leverage cutting-edge diagnostic tools and molecular techniques to unravel complex disease cycles and develop effective management solutions. This is an exciting opportunity for a dedicated scientist to make a significant impact on agricultural sustainability and productivity from a remote work setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Diagnosing plant diseases affecting a wide range of crops using visual, cultural, and molecular methods.
• Conducting laboratory and field research to understand disease epidemiology, pathogen biology, and host-pathogen interactions.
• Developing and validating novel disease control strategies, including biological, chemical, and cultural approaches.
• Providing expert advice and technical support to internal teams and external stakeholders on plant disease management.
• Managing and interpreting data from diagnostic assays and research experiments.
• Staying updated on emerging plant disease threats and research trends globally.
• Contributing to the development and maintenance of pathogen culture collections.
• Authoring scientific publications, technical reports, and grant proposals.
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams, including breeders, agronomists, and entomologists, to integrate disease management solutions.
• Maintaining accurate and comprehensive records of all research activities and diagnostic findings.

Requirements

• PhD in Plant Pathology, Botany, Microbiology, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 6 years of post-doctoral experience in plant pathology research or diagnostics.
• Comprehensive knowledge of fungal, bacterial, viral, and nematode diseases of major crops.
• Proficiency in modern diagnostic techniques, including molecular methods (PCR, qPCR, sequencing).
• Strong understanding of plant-environment interactions and disease forecasting models.
• Proven ability to design, execute, and interpret complex research studies.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience in scientific writing.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote environment.
• Experience with bioinformatics tools for pathogen analysis is advantageous.
• Commitment to upholding the highest standards of scientific integrity and research ethics.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience and a comprehensive benefits package, including fully paid health insurance, a generous retirement savings plan, and flexible working hours.
• As a remote-first role, you will have the autonomy to manage your work schedule effectively.
• Professional development opportunities, including conference attendance and advanced training, are readily available.
• Join a globally respected organization at the forefront of agricultural science and contribute to global food security from the comfort of your home.
• Initial onboarding and team integration will be facilitated remotely.