Senior Plant Pathologist

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Generous leave policy

Laboratory facilities

Professional development

Retirement fund

Conference support

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Senior Plant Pathologist to spearhead crop-disease research in the Pietermaritzburg region. The role combines lab work, field trials, and stakeholder collaboration to translate findings into practical disease management strategies.

The candidate will lead a team of researchers, publish in reputable journals, and drive innovation in plant health and food security. Hybrid work and travel are part of the role.

Qualifications

• PhD in Plant Pathology, Agronomy, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of research experience in plant pathology and crop diseases.
• Proven track record of leading research projects and publishing in reputable journals.
• Expertise in plant disease diagnosis, epidemiology, and management for major regional crops.
• Proficiency in laboratory techniques including microscopy, culturing, and molecular diagnostics (PCR/qPCR).
• Experience designing field experiments and performing statistical analysis of agricultural data.
• Strong leadership and communication skills; able to mentor staff and present findings clearly.
• Willingness to travel for field research and conferences.

Responsibilities

• Lead research projects on identification, characterization, and epidemiology of plant pathogens.
• Develop and implement integrated disease management strategies (biological and chemical).
• Conduct laboratory diagnostics and molecular identification of pathogens.
• Design and execute field trials to evaluate treatments and identify resistant germplasm.
• Analyze data and prepare reports and scientific publications.
• Collaborate with scientists, extension agents, and farmers to disseminate findings.
• Supervise and mentor junior researchers, technicians, and students.
• Manage research budgets and resources effectively.
• Stay current with advancements through literature reviews and conferences.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations in lab and field settings.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Plant pathology

Molecular diagnostics

Statistical analysis

Education

PhD in Plant Pathology / Agronomy / related field

Tools

Microscopy

Culturing

Molecular diagnostics

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a leading agricultural research institution dedicated to advancing sustainable farming practices and ensuring crop health. We are seeking an experienced and dedicated Senior Plant Pathologist to spearhead research initiatives focused on identifying, diagnosing, and managing plant diseases. This role is vital for developing innovative solutions to protect crops and enhance agricultural productivity in the Pietermaritzburg region and beyond. The successful candidate will lead a team of researchers, conduct field and laboratory studies, and contribute to the development of disease management strategies. This hybrid position offers a blend of on-site laboratory and field work with opportunities for remote data analysis and reporting. You will play a key role in translating scientific findings into practical applications for farmers and agricultural stakeholders. Our client is committed to fostering a collaborative research environment where scientific rigor and practical impact are paramount. Your work will directly contribute to food security and the economic vitality of the agricultural sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research projects focused on the identification, characterization, and epidemiology of plant pathogens affecting key crops.
• Develop and implement integrated disease management strategies, including biological and chemical control methods.
• Conduct laboratory-based diagnostics, including isolation, culturing, and molecular identification of pathogens.
• Design and execute field trials to evaluate the efficacy of disease control treatments and identify resistant germplasm.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, preparing comprehensive reports and scientific publications.
• Collaborate with other scientists, extension agents, and farmers to disseminate research findings and provide technical support.
• Supervise and mentor junior researchers, technicians, and students.
• Manage research budgets and resources effectively.
• Stay current with advancements in plant pathology and related disciplines through literature review and participation in scientific conferences.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations in laboratory and field settings.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Plant Pathology, Agronomy, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of research experience in plant pathology, with a strong focus on crop diseases.
• Proven track record of leading research projects and publishing findings in reputable scientific journals.
• Expertise in plant disease diagnosis, epidemiology, and management strategies for major crop types relevant to the region.
• Proficiency in laboratory techniques, including microscopy, culturing, and molecular diagnostics (e.g., PCR, qPCR).
• Experience in designing and conducting field experiments and statistical analysis of agricultural data.
• Strong understanding of plant-microbe interactions and host-pathogen systems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management abilities.
• Willingness to undertake travel for field research and attend conferences.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive remuneration package, including a substantial annual salary, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive medical aid.
• Employees benefit from a generous leave policy, access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, and opportunities for professional development and further training.
• The hybrid work model allows for flexibility, balancing dedicated research time with personal commitments.
• We also offer a retirement fund contribution and support for attending national and international scientific gatherings.
• Join a team that is passionate about agricultural innovation and committed to making a real-world difference.