Sustainable Horticulture Research Scientist

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Medical coverage

Retirement savings plan

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Horticultural Research Scientist for a leading agricultural research institution in Centurion. The role focuses on sustainable horticultural practices across crops, with design, execution, and analysis of trials to improve quality, yield, and resilience while reducing environmental impact.

The candidate will work in state-of-the-art facilities, collaborating with a team of scientists and technicians, and providing mentorship to junior researchers.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Horticulture, Plant Science, Agronomy, or closely related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of post-doctoral research experience in horticulture or related discipline.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software and experimental design.
• Excellent scientific writing and oral communication skills.
• Hands-on experience with laboratory techniques and field trials.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and manage horticultural research experiments focused on sustainable practices, including water management and nutrient cycling.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret data from field and laboratory trials using statistical software.
• Investigate plant responses to environmental conditions, soil types, and cultivation techniques.
• Develop protocols and methodologies for horticultural research and crop improvement.
• Document findings and prepare scientific reports, publications, and presentations.
• Maintain and operate research equipment, including greenhouses and lab instruments.
• Collaborate with scientists, technicians, and external partners on projects.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior researchers and interns.
• Ensure adherence to safety protocols and ethical guidelines in research.
• Contribute to grant writing and funding proposals.

Skills

Statistical analysis

Scientific writing

Oral communication

Independent work

Team collaboration

Education

Ph.D. in Horticulture/Plant Science/Agronomy

Tools

R

SAS

SPSS

Job description

Placements24 seeks a Horticultural Research Scientist for a leading agricultural research institution in Centurion. The role focuses on sustainable horticultural practices across crops, with design, execution, and analysis of trials to improve quality, yield, and resilience while reducing environmental impact.

The candidate will work in state-of-the-art facilities, collaborating with a team of scientists and technicians, and providing mentorship to junior researchers.