Starke Ayres: Seed Analyst at Plennegy Group

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Sampling

• Sampling of seed lots according to ISTA Rules.

Screen analysis and defect determination on seed received

• Obtain the prescribed submitted sample according to the ISTA Rules.
• Obtain a working sample from the submitted sample using a method prescribed in the ISTA Rules.
• Do a defect determination.
• Weigh fractions separately and report.
• Identify other seed found during the defect determination.
• Report results on the job card.

Defect determination and purity analysis on seed presented

• Stand Obtain the prescribed submitted sample according to the ISTA Rules.
• Obtain the prescribed working sample, from the submitted sample, according to the ISTA Rules.
• Do a defect determination and purity analysis.
• Weigh fractions separately and report the percentages.
• Identify other seed found during the purity analysis.
• Complete the purity results on the job card.

Planting of seed samples

• Choose the planting method according to the ISTA Rules for the specific species, taking into consideration the current temperature settings of the incubators.
• In the event that a germination test is not satisfactory an alternative method can be used in consultation with the Laboratory Manager/Supervisor, making it possible to determine the difference in germintion in various media.
• Report germination on the job card with regard to various planting methods.
• General supervision of laboratory juniors with regard to the planting of seed samples.
• The decision to retest should be made in consultation with laboratory superiors.      

Evaluation of seedlings in a germination test, according to the ISTA rules

• Do a first count on the germination as prescribed by the ISTA Rules, do intermediate counts if necessary and then a final evaluation as prescribed by ISTA Rules.
• Seedlings need to be divided into the following categories:
• normal seedlings
• abnormal seedlings
• dead seeds
• hard seeds
• fresh seeds
• The abovementioned needs to be reported as a percentage on the germination card.
• The decision to retest, in the event that replicates are not in tolerance, should be made in consultation with the Laboratory Manager/Supervisor.

REQUIREMENTS

Education

• Grade 12 with Biology, Science and Maths or applicable experience (essential)
• Post Matric qualification, e.g. Agricultural Diploma (essential)

Experience

Must have passed & completed the following:

• Seed Science Course
• Exams in practical seed analysis (agronomy, horticulture & grasses)
• 3 years experience in seed analysis
• 11 prescribed unit standards
• In-house sampling course
• In-house grading training
• In-house quality training