Re-Advert Senior Researcher (Farmer Support, Commercialization & Enterprise Development) Three (3) Years Fixed Term (Roodeplaat) at Agricultural Research Council

Description

• Project Management & Coordination
• The Senior Researcher is responsible for the coordination and supports the management of Research Projects across the Institute; these include supporting and coordination of the following aspects of the projects
• Project planning and Initiation.
• Equipment and Research Materials.
• Project Human Resources.
• Project Finances.
• Risk Management and Mitigation.
• Monitoring, Evaluation, reporting and project close out.
• Research, Development, and Innovation
• The Senior Researcher is responsible for the coordination and supports the management of Research, development, and innovation, these include the supporting and coordination of the following Research aspects
• Invention.
• Translation. 
• Commercialization.
• Adoption and Use.
• Research Collaboration
• The Senior Researcher is responsible for the coordination and supports the management of strategic research collaboration and collaboration opportunities; these include the supporting and coordination of
• Strategic Research partnerships / networks / collaborators.
• Intra-Inter Institutional Collaboration & Partnerships.
• Human Capacity Building
• The Senior Researcher is responsible for coordination and supports the management of Human Capacity Development that includes support of
• Project staff and students.
• Self.

Requirements

• PhD or DSc in Agricultural Economics, Agribusiness, Business Administration, or a related field.
• At least 5 years post PhD experience or 5 years proven relevant experience in business development or commercialization.
• Authored or co-authors a minimum of 12 peer review publications relevant to the position.
• Experience working with agribusinesses is an advantage.
• Market research and customer segmentation skills.
• Knowledge in business modelling and strategic planning.
• Sales and partnership development.
• Good ability to write proposals and investor communication.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving ability.
• Entrepreneurial mindset and self-motivated.
• Proven track record of taking products or services to market.
• Strong knowledge of value chains and market systems.
• Proven track record of mentoring and supervising/co-supervising other researchers and students’ development. 
• Registration with a scientific and professional body will be an added advantage.
• NRF rating of at least C1 or higher will be an added advantage.
• A valid driver’s licence.  
• CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATION: 18 NOVEMBER 2025