SCIENTIST (PRODUCTION LEVEL): PLANT PATHOLOGY (ELSENBURG)

Salary

Grade A: R761 157 per annum, (OSD as prescribed) Grade C: R1 144 008 per annum, (OSD as prescribed)

Requirements

An appropriate Science Degree BSc (Hons) or equivalent in Plant Pathology;
Compulsory registration with SACNASP as a Professional Natural Scientist in
the appropriate field of practice; A minimum of 3 years post-qualification natural
scientific experience in Plant Pathology; A valid driving licence. Competencies:
Comprehensive knowledge of the following: Plant pathology and managing
plant health is required; Management in multidisciplinary cropping systems of
the Western Cape for optimal plant health, production and sustainability;
Planning skills that involves managing a complex systems trial, as well as the
large data sets involved; A proven record of participation in the scientific
process, as indicated by contributions at local and overseas scientific
conferences, study tours, peer reviewed papers published in scientific journals
and accredited conference proceedings, and papers in the popular press in this
research area; Skills in the following: Communication skills at production and
scientific level: Research connections with academic institutes involved in
cropping systems and agronomy are recommended; Contact with industry and
producers is important; Computer literacy in MS Office (Word, Excel,
PowerPoint).

Duties

Participate with problem identification, problem definition and the prioritization
of research needs in in the field of plant pathology and crop health
management in accordance with the departmental strategic plan to ensure that
relevant and applicable research is conducted; Conduct scientifically
accountable, innovative and advanced research trials (on-site) to ensure that
cutting edge research is conducted and an information source is available for
sustainable agricultural practices; Conduct statistical analysis, interpret results,
formulate conclusions and present research findings to all relevant
stakeholders and beneficiaries; Perform all administrative and related
functions; Keep up to date with applicable prescripts, policies, procedures,
technologies and new developments to be able to render an efficient and
effective Research service. The following will be advantageous: MSc Agric
degree in Plant Pathology; Experience in plant diseases in field crops and/or
grain cropping systems; A comprehensive knowledge of field crop diseases,
which includes an in-depth knowledge of field trials and associated
conservation agriculture strategies; Knowledge of conservation agricultural
and regenerative agricultural systems; A proven record of participation in the
scientific process, as indicated by contributions at local and overseas scientific
conferences, study tours, peer reviewed papers published in scientific journals
and accredited conference proceedings, and papers in the popular press in this
research area; Research connections with academic institutes involved in
agronomy research, are recommended.

Enquiries

Ms A Swanepoel Tel No: (021) 808 5320