Latest Jobs at Agricultural Research Council

Description

• Plan, organize, coordinate and undertake research on the use of insect natural enemies and entomopathogenic organisms (nematodes, fungi and viruses) for the biological control of insect pests of crops, such as the Tuta tomato pinworm, Fall armyworm, Diamondback moth, etc.
• Undertake both field and laboratory-based research on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) of insect pests of crops, using classical biocontrol methods, pesticide application management, habitat management and using innovative technology.
• Help drive the initiation, development and commercialization of bioproducts developed in the laboratory.
• Independently design, plan, collect, capture, analyze and interpret laboratory and field research data.
• Develop and maintain national and international collaboration networks.
• Write project proposals and successful application for external research funding.
• Manage human capacity, budgets and project resources to achieve contractual obligations.
• Publish research results in high quality peer-reviewed journals and semi-scientific/popular articles.
• Transfer technology at national and international conferences and workshops, and training events.

Requirements

• PhD with Entomology / Environmental Science as a major, with at least 5 years relevant experience in Applied Entomology and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) will be an advantage.
• Proven research track record, particularly in Applied Entomology / Insect Ecology / IPM / Biocontrol.
• Proven ability to successfully apply for research funding.
• Experienced in research design, planning, data collection, analysis and interpretation.
• Ability and willingness to travel on local projects, undertake physical work, and work extended hours if required.
• Ability and experience to lead projects, manage human capacity and resources, and deliver on contractual obligations.
• Computer literacy (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint), with good statistical knowledge (e.g. Statistical).
• Proven experience and track record in scientific publication in quality peer-reviewed journals, report writing, presenting at conferences, compiling popular articles and marketing materials, as well as networking and co-ordination of projects on national and international levels.
• Code B/EB driver’s license and experience required.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 22 OCTOBER 2025

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Description

• Research, Development, and Innovation

Responsible for conducting Research, development and supporting Innovation, these include:

• Invention
• Translation
• Commercialisation
• Adoption and Use

Project Management & Coordination

Responsible for conducting Research Projects, these include:

• Research planning and Initiation
• Equipment and Research Materials
• Project Human Resources
• Project Finances
• Risk Management and Mitigation
• Monitoring, Evaluation, reporting and project close out

Research Collaboration

• Responsible for supporting strategic research collaboration and collaboration opportunities; these include
• Strategic Research partnerships/networks/ Collaborators
• Intra-Inter Institutional Collaboration & Partnerships

Human Capacity Building

• Responsible for supporting Human Capacity Development that includes support of Project staff and students Self

Requirements

• Ph.D. degree or an MSc with 3 years’ applicable experience in Animal Science, specializing in Reproductive Physiology and Cryobiology.
• Minimum 3-5 peer reviewed publications or number of publications.
• Proven record of accomplishment for generating external income for projects.
• Proven record of participating as speaker nationally and internationally.
• Proven track record of mentoring and supervising/co-supervising other researchers and students.
• Record of building/supporting national and international partnerships and networks.
• Proven record of accomplishment that expertise and scientific standing is acknowledged
• Proven record for financial management of projects.
• Strategic and operational planning skills and expertise.
• Registration with a scientific and professional body will be an added advantage.
• NRF rating will be an added advantage.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 20 OCTOBER 2025

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Description

• Provide research support to Nematology research projects as the affiliated postgraduate student.
• Engage with relevant stakeholders within affiliated research projects.
• Provide technology transfer to small-holder farmers.
• Disseminate project results through peer-reviewed or popular publications and presentations at conferences.
• Provide support with diagnostic services by helping with nematode extractions for clients and internal projects.
• Collect, capture, process and interpret field data, and make internal project recommendations.
• Ensures compliance with SHE/OHS policies and procedures

Requirements

• BSc in Agriculture, Biological Sciences, Crop Protection, Plant Production, Agronomy, Horticulture/Environmental Sciences.
• Applicants should be highly motivated graduates with a strong academic background.
• Good communication skills (written and verbal).
• Must be willing to travel to remote villages.
• A valid driver's license will be an added advantage.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 23 OCTOBER 2025

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Description

• Assist with mass-rearing of host insects in the Insectary
• Assist with field surveys, data collection, including multi-day trips to the field
• Assist with bioassay screening trials in the laboratory
• Assist with technology transfer initiatives with farmers
• Planting and maintenance of test plants in the glasshouse and growth rooms
• Cleaning and basic maintenance of laboratory and field equipment and facilities
• Record keeping for plant and insect production

Requirements

• Grade 12 (or equivalent /RPL with 2 years’ experience)/ Diploma in Plant Protection/Plant Production
• Experience in insect rearing will be an advantage.
• A basic level of computer literacy (email; data entry onto spreadsheet)
• Ability to work as part of a team, under instruction
• Able to travel and work in the field with occasional extended hours if required.
• Driver’s license 08/EB driver.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 22 OCTOBER 2025

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Description

• Pro-actively provide technical input within the context of the research projects.
• Provide timeous and reliable data, which supports the objectives of the research project.
• Provide training and supervision to subordinates.
• Participate in data collection, processing and interpretation of results.
• Correctly apply techniques within guidelines/standards/references.
• Ensure cost-effective utilisation of research resources.
• Complete purchase requisitions, obtain quotations and purchasing of required research materials and consumables following the financial prescriptions.
• Compile quarterly progress reports.
• Assist in hosting field days.
• Assist in communication with farmers and extension officers.
• Assist in commercialisation activities.
• Contribute to publications (e.g. popular publications).
• Participate in preparing/ giving presentations (e.g. at farmers' days, training events, conferences, etc.).
• Regulatory Compliance with the Health and Safety procedures
• Contribute towards professional development of subordinates and self.

Requirements

• MTech. degree in Plant Breeding or Plant Production or related field (Crop Science or Agronomy or Plant Sciences), plus two years relevant experience.
• B. degree or B. Hons degree or B. Tech, or National Higher Diploma in Plant Production or related field (Crop Science or Agronomy or Plant Sciences), plus six years relevant experience.
• National Diploma (3 years) plus eight years relevant experience.
• Ability to set-up and manage research trials under field conditions.
• Experience in plant breeding techniques will be an added advantage.
• Advanced computer literacy (MS Office packages).
• Registration with relevant scientific body will be an added advantage.
• Valid drivers’ licence

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 23 OCTOBER 2025

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Description

• Plans and coordinates own work activities aligned with project plans.
• Supervises allocated HR resources.
• Assists in managing project budgets and adheres to financial controls.
• Conducts research support, diagnostics, and other services under supervision.
• Renders technical services and optimizes equipment/processes/systems.
• Provides input into the optimisation of new technologies.
• Collects, captures, and processes data with basic analysis.
• Provides verbal and written reports on activities and results.
• Presents findings to stakeholders (including training/advisory roles).
• Adheres to quality standards.
• Complies with SHE/OHS regulations and procedures.
• Evidence of contributions to publications or presentations (e.g., farmers' days).
• Demonstrates measurable outcomes and project impact.
• Support capacity development and training of junior staff.

Requirements

• National Diploma or BTech/BSc in Plant Breeding, Crop & Plant Production or Agronomy.
• Minimum of 3 years relevant experience in technical aspects of crop production.
• Fundamental knowledge of seed systems.
• Applicable experience on roots and tubers and bulbous will be an added advantage.
• Ability to work under pressure while ensuring timely and high-quality analysis.
• Knowledge of laboratory quality management systems.
• Good communication skills (verbal and written).
• Strong computer literacy.
• A valid driver’s license and able to drive long distance.
• Registration with a relevant scientific or professional body will be an added advantage.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATION: 21 OCTOBER 2025