Soil Scientist - Agricultural Research and Development

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Access to cutting-edge facilities

Conference attendance

Professional development support

Generous leave and research time

Job summary

Placements24 in collaboration with a prestigious agricultural research institution in Rustenburg seeks a dedicated Soil Scientist to advance soil health and fertility through innovative research and fieldwork.

You will lead projects, perform lab and field analyses, and develop sustainable practices for crop production while preserving soil integrity. The role offers access to cutting-edge facilities and opportunities to present at international conferences.

Qualifications

• PhD in Soil Science, Agricultural Science, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral research experience with publications.
• Expertise in soil chemistry, physics, and microbiology with hands-on instrumentation.
• Experience designing and managing field and laboratory research projects.
• Strong quantitative and statistical analysis skills with proficiency in R, SPSS, SAS.
• Excellent scientific writing and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute research protocols for soil characterization, fertility assessment, and nutrient management studies.
• Conduct laboratory analyses of soil samples using advanced instrumentation.
• Perform field-based soil sampling and monitoring in the Rustenburg region.
• Interpret data and generate scientific reports, publications, and presentations.
• Develop and recommend best management practices for soil conservation, fertility improvement, and sustainable land use.
• Collaborate with agronomists, plant scientists, and farmers to translate findings into practical applications.
• Stay abreast of advancements in soil science and environmental science.
• Manage research budgets and supervise junior staff or technicians as needed.
• Contribute to grant writing and secure funding for new research initiatives in soil science.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.

Skills

Statistical analysis

Scientific writing

Communication

Independent and collaborative work

Education

PhD in Soil Science or related field

Tools

R

SPSS

SAS

GIS/Remote sensing

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious agricultural research institution with a significant presence in the Rustenburg area, is seeking a dedicated and innovative Soil Scientist. This role is crucial for advancing our understanding of soil health, fertility, and management practices essential for sustainable agriculture. The Soil Scientist will lead research projects, conduct laboratory and field analyses, and contribute to the development of practical solutions for optimizing crop production while preserving soil integrity. This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of agricultural science, contributing to the environmental stewardship and productivity of the North West province's agricultural sector, specifically around Rustenburg .

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute research protocols for soil characterization, fertility assessment, and nutrient management studies in diverse agricultural settings.
• Conduct laboratory analyses of soil samples, including physical, chemical, and biological properties, using advanced instrumentation.
• Perform field-based soil sampling and monitoring, documenting soil conditions and environmental factors relevant to crop growth in the Rustenburg region.
• Interpret complex soil data and generate comprehensive scientific reports, publications, and presentations.
• Develop and recommend best management practices for soil conservation, fertility improvement, and sustainable land use.
• Collaborate with agronomists, plant scientists, and farmers to translate research findings into practical applications for improved crop yields and soil health.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in soil science, agricultural technology, and environmental science.
• Manage research budgets and supervise junior research staff or technicians as needed.
• Contribute to grant writing and secure funding for new research initiatives in soil science.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations in laboratory and field operations.

Requirements

• A PhD in Soil Science, Agricultural Science, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral research experience in soil science, with a proven publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
• Expertise in soil chemistry, physics, and microbiology, with hands-on experience in advanced analytical techniques and instrumentation.
• Demonstrated experience in designing and managing field and laboratory research projects.
• Strong quantitative and statistical analysis skills, with proficiency in relevant software (e.g., R, SPSS, SAS).
• Excellent scientific writing and communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and effectively.
• Experience with GIS and remote sensing technologies for soil mapping and analysis is a plus.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a research team.
• A strong understanding of agricultural systems in the North West province, particularly around Rustenburg .
• A valid driver's license is required for field research activities.

Benefits

• A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Access to cutting-edge research facilities and equipment.
• Opportunities for attending and presenting at international scientific conferences.
• Professional development support and career advancement pathways.
• A stimulating research environment focused on impactful agricultural innovation.
• Generous annual leave and research time allocation.
• Contribute to sustainable agricultural practices in South Africa.
• Be part of a renowned institution dedicated to agricultural advancement.