MSC Student: Plant Pathology (Two Years (2) Fixed Term Contract) at Agricultural Research Council

Job Description

• Plan and execute research activities focused on community engagement in plant health biosecurity in South Africa’s major banana-growing regions.
• Collect and analyse data on perceptions, knowledge, and attitudes of smallholder banana growers and homeowners regarding Banana bunchy top virus.
• Regularly provide feedback on progress (verbal and/or written) to supervisor.
• Contribute towards the dissemination of outcomes through presentations and publications.

Job Requirements

• BSc in Agriculture Plant Pathology/ Plant Science or relevant qualification.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.
• Interest in plant health, biosecurity, food security and community-based research.
• Willingness to travel and conduct fieldwork in rural and peri-urban settings.
• Cultural awareness and sensitivity in community-based research environments.
• Excellent understanding of statistical tools for data analysis.
• Valid driver’s licence.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 19 February 2026