13 Agronomy jobs in South Africa

Overview

POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP: AGRONOMY THREE YEARS FIXED TERM CONTRACT at Agricultural Research Council.

Join to apply for the POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP: AGRONOMY THREE YEARS FIXED TERM CONTRACT role at Agricultural Research Council.

• Design and execute experiments or studies aligned with the ARC research agenda.
• Analyse data and interpret results using appropriate methodologies.
• Contribute to multi-disciplinary or cross-institutional research initiatives.
• Write and submit articles to peer-reviewed journals.
• Present at conferences, seminars, and workshops.
• Mentor postgraduate (MSc/PhD) students or interns.
• Data analysis.
• Assist in preparing funding proposals and research grant applications.
• Attend workshops, training sessions, and seminars to build skills in areas like project management, scientific writing, or advanced research techniques.
• Engage in collaborative research and knowledge exchange.
• Submit regular progress reports to supervisors.
• Compliance with research integrity and ethics.

• Not specified in the provided description.

Referrals, external postings, or non-job content were removed to focus on the role responsibilities and requirements.

• Design and execute experiments or studies aligned with the ARC research agenda.


• Analyse data and interpret results using appropriate methodologies


• Contribute to multi-disciplinary or cross-institutional research initiatives.


• Write and submit articles to peer-reviewed journals.


• Present at conferences, seminars, and workshops.


• Mentor postgraduate (MSc/PhD) students or interns.


• Data analysis.


• Assist in preparing funding proposals and research grant applications.


• Attend workshops, training sessions, and seminars to build skills in areas like project management, scientific writing, or advanced research techniques.


• Engage in collaborative research and knowledge exchange.


• Submit regular progress reports to supervisors.


• Compliance to Research integrity and ethics.

Requirements

• PhD (awarded within the last 5 years) in Agronomy, Plant Sciences, Plant Production or a related field.


• Two (2) peer-reviewed publications.


• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

REMUNARATION

• R350 000 per annum (taxable)

 Enquiries: Dr Meshack Mofokeng Tel:

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 01 OCTOBER 2025

 A competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance (as well as competency and leadership assessments).

Preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by a covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent (3) contactable referees.  Certified copies of certificates, supporting documents and a copy of driver’s license must be attached on the form.

A SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months’ probation period. The organization reserves the right not to appoint.

2 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants

Company Description
As a world market leader in crop protection, we help farmers to counter these threats and ensure enough safe, nutritious, affordable food for all – while minimizing the use of land and other agricultural inputs. Syngenta Crop Protection keeps plants safe from planting to harvesting. From the moment a seed is planted through to harvest, crops need to be protected from weeds, insects and diseases as well as droughts and floods, heat and cold. Syngenta Crop Protection is headquartered in Switzerland.

Job Description

• Lead the strategy for adoption and growth of digital agronomy services in the region, engaging with key stakeholders to drive implementation and success.
• Provide support to clients using our farm management and field monitoring platform. This includes onboarding clients onto the platform, drawing up field boundaries, setting up their accounts, and providing support in using the platform.
• The position will be based in the Eastern Free State or KwaZulu-Natal, preferably near Bethlehem/Harrismith/Winterton.
• Crop focus will mainly be maize, wheat and potatoes.
• Take note this is a full-time contract position for 12 months.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including Sales, Marketing, Seeds, Distributors, and influential farmers to promote adoption of digital solutions.
• Conduct regular stakeholder analysis and engagement planning to ensure effective communication and collaboration.
• Organize and lead workshops, demonstrations, and training sessions to showcase the value of digital agronomy services to potential clients.
• Onboard new users onto the platform, including setting up their accounts and providing training on how to use the platform.
• Draw up field boundaries and input them into the platform. This may require travelling to visit farms and gather field boundary information.
• Provide ongoing support to users, including answering questions and troubleshooting any issues they may have.
• Other duties as assigned: data entry, data enquiries, database management, etc.

• Associates or Bachelor's degree in a related field such as agriculture or geography.

• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, in both Afrikaans and English.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to work with precision and accuracy.
• Passion for agriculture and technology.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies.
• Willingness to travel to visit farms to onboard and support users with the platform.
• Goal and achievement oriented with a strong desire to meet and exceed expectations.
• Attention to detail to ensure data and reports are accurate and precise.

• Strong computer skills and proficiency with common office software (e.g. Microsoft Office).
• Experience with farm management, field monitoring platforms or geographic information systems (GIS) (preferred, but not required).

• Ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on execution in a dynamic agricultural technology environment.
• Skill in navigating complex stakeholder landscapes and aligning diverse interests towards common goals.
• Capacity to drive change and overcome resistance to new technologies in traditional farming communities.
• Own reliable travel to visit farms, driving on gravel roads.
• Clearly and comfortably communicate with clients who are predominantly Afrikaans.

• Mid-Senior level

• Contract

• Chemical Manufacturing

Description/Synopsis

A well-established agricultural company is seeking a Junior Agricultural Research Technician to join their research team in Potchefstroom. This role offers the opportunity to plan, execute, and analyze field trials across key row crops while contributing to crop innovation and improvement. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, research-driven, and passionate about agricultural development.

• Degree in Agriculture or related field, with proven research experience (University-level research essential)
• Driver’s License (essential for field travel)
• 1 – 2 years’ experience with statistical trial planning, execution, and reporting in an agricultural/laboratory environment
• Advanced proficiency in MS Excel and research tools
• Knowledge of row crops such as maize, soy, sunflower, sorghum, and wheat highly advantageous
• Self-motivated, responsible, and detail-oriented

• Plan, execute, and analyze field trials for crops including maize, sunflower, sorghum, and soy
• Collect, record, and analyze trial data to support crop improvement strategies
• Assist with trial setups, farmer’s days, and grower support during plantings and harvests
• Collaborate with sales teams on trial campaigns during peak seasons
• Coordinate logistics and ensure trials are maintained to company standards
• Prepare research reports and contribute to new product development

• Passionate about agricultural research and farming innovation
• Strong communication skills and ability to engage with growers and clients
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team
• Excellent organizational skills with attention to detail

Overview

AFRIKAANS FLUENTLY, FRENCH WILL BE ADVANTAGE

Research & Development Manager Agricultural

Fertilizer Products

Springs, East Rand, Ekurhuleni

• Lead the development and formulation of new fertilizer products to enhance crop performance.
• Identify and evaluate new opportunities, conducting feasibility studies for projects and products.
• Define and implement an Research & Development roadmap aligned with business objectives and market trends.
• Apply scientific methods, design trial protocols, conduct and manage research projects, analyze trial data, and produce clear reports.
• Maintain strong documentation standards; develop and update SOPs.
• Oversee laboratory, greenhouse, and field trial activities, ensuring accurate execution and data integrity.
• Support the product registration process and troubleshoot technical production issues.
• Supervise daily laboratory operations, maintain safety, and promote continuous learning and innovation in the Research & Development team.
• Mentor and develop junior team members and allocate resources effectively.
• Manage Research & Development budgets and track project timelines, delivering world-class research aligned with latest agronomic and biotechnological trends.

• Master’s Degree in Biotechnology (Biochemistry, Microbiology, Plant Physiology) or Agronomy .
• At least 10 years experience in the agriculture sector .
• Minimum 5 years proven experience in team leadership.
• Good command of Afrikaans/English/French (advantageous).
• Strong analytical, planning, and time management skills.
• Advanced computer proficiency (MS Office and MS Project).
• Excellent verbal and written communicator, skilled in stakeholder engagement and presenting.
• Demonstrated innovation, adaptability, and strong professional ethics.
• Solid business and financial understanding with a focus on process improvement and achieving results.

Responsibilities

• Sort and verify soil samples received against the survey data management database.
• Prepare soil samples for spectral analysis according to the standard operating procedures.
• Package soil samples for international shipping.
• Assist with archiving of soil samples.
• Properly maintain lab equipment.

• Entry level

• Contract

• Research, Analyst, and Information Technology

• Research Services

• Sort and verify soil samples received against the survey data management database.
• Prepare soil samples for spectral analysis according to the standard operating procedures.
• Package soil samples for international shipping.
• Assist with archiving of soil samples.
• Properly maintain lab equipment.

• Keep a clean lab.

• Grade 12/ Senior Certificate.

• Previous soil laboratory work experience will be an added advantage.
• Attention to detail.
• Good work ethic.
• Computer literacy and proficiency in MS Office suite.
• Good communication skills (written and verbal).

Enquiries: Dr NZ Sosibo, Tel:

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 30 SEPTEMBER 2025

A competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance (as well as competency and leadership assessments).

Preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by a covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent (3) contactable referees, certified copies of certificates, supporting documents and a copy of driver's license must be attached on the form.

A SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months' probation period. The organisation reserves the right not to appoint.

In the framework of a DAAD-funded project focused on Sustainable and Resilient Food Systems and Applied Agricultural and Food Data Science, the University of the Western Cape (Cape Town, South Africa) is seeking to appoint a Research Chair at the level of Associate Professor/Professor, starting from 1 March 2026.The Chair is funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) with funds from the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR).

A key component of this project is the establishment of a Centre of Excellence at the University of the Western Cape, dedicated to sustainable and resilient agri-food systems, as well as applied agricultural and food and nutritional data science. The centre’s primary objective is to further develop the expertise of doctoral students, early-career researchers, and university lecturers through application-oriented and transdisciplinary research in agri-food systems and applied data science. It also aims to enhance teaching methodologies and mentorship programmes within these interdisciplinary fields.

The Centre is established within a German-African university consortium, co-led by the University of Hohenheim and the University of the Western Cape, with the University of Pretoria and the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources as core partners and the University of Mpumalanga as associate partner.

Within the Centre, a Research Chair is created to advance the linkage between agri-food systems research and data science. The Research Chair will, together with the management team, lead and coordinate the activities of the Centre, and serve as a liaison between the Centre and the research groups at the partnering institutions (including the NRF-funded Research Chair on farming systems at the University of Mpumalanga). The duration of the contract position is tied to the project’s duration which ends December 2029.The position is financed by the DAAD with funds from the BMFTR, reporting directly to the Deputy Vice Chancellor responsible for Research and Innovation at the University of the Western Cape.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the following key performance areas:

• Establish and advance an independent research agenda aligned with the Centre’s research themes;
• Strengthen the research profile of the Centre via active participation, postdoctoral and PhD supervision, publications, and innovative contributions;
• Facilitate learning events affiliated to resilient food systems and agri-food data sciences;
• Spearhead the liaison between the Centre and the research groups at the partnering institutions in the consortium with the aim of deepening the synergistic relationships and creating possibilities for creating new opportunities and channels of funding;
• Work with the eResearch Office, the Information and Communication Services (ICS) on Research Data Management (RDM) and High Performance Computing issues related to agri-food systems;
• Facilitate research grants and learning and/or teaching stays for German doctoral students, university lecturers and (young) researchers in South Africa;
• Facilitate regular webinars and seminars on Resilient Food Systems and Agri-Food Data Science;
• Develop mechanisms for long term sustainability of the Centre of Excellence;
• Work with relevant departments on the establishment of agri-food data science short courses for the industry.

• You must be a citizen of an EU member state.
• Applicants (m/f/d) should generally have lived in the Federal Republic of Germany for the last two years before applying. Close contact with a German university is also essential during the period abroad.
• Possession of a Ph.D. in one of the following fields: Data Science, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Food Systems/Agriculture with a demonstrated expertise in Data Science applications.
• Experience in teaching undergraduate and postgraduate data science courses at a German University.
• A track record of quality peer-reviewed publications in accredited journals and conferences, and research in data science, preferably in the context of Agri-food Systems.
• A track record of successful postgraduate supervision of both Masters and PhD students in Data Science and/or Agri-food Systems.
• Evidence of international presence in data science related research fields.
• Evidence of leadership experience and ability to work in multinational and multicultural research environments.

The following documents must be submitted with the application:

• a cover letter outlining your interest.
• a separate description of your research vision for the Centre of Excellence.
• a curriculum vitae including a list of publications.
• contact information for three referees.
• a brief teaching dossier, preferably on data science and food systems related modules including teaching evaluations.

Overview

Title of Position: Research Chair: Applied Agricultural and Food Data Science

Post Number: 8653

Faculty/Department: University of the Western Cape -> Natural Sciences -> Natural Sciences Faculty Administration

Type of Position: Fixed Term Contract

Length of Contract Period: N/A

Location: Main Campus - Bellville, WC ZA (Primary)

Closing Date: 15/10/2025

In the framework of a DAAD-funded project focused on Sustainable and Resilient Food Systems and Applied Agricultural and Food Data Science, the University of the Western Cape (Cape Town, South Africa) is seeking to appoint a Research Chair at the level of Associate Professor/Professor, starting from 1 March 2026. The Chair is funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) with funds from the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR).

A key component of this project is the establishment of a Centre of Excellence at the University of the Western Cape, dedicated to sustainable and resilient agri-food systems, as well as applied agricultural and food and nutritional data science. The centre’s primary objective is to further develop the expertise of doctoral students, early-career researchers, and university lecturers through application-oriented and transdisciplinary research in agri-food systems and applied data science. It also aims to enhance teaching methodologies and mentorship programmes within these interdisciplinary fields.

The Centre is established within a German-African university consortium, co-led by the University of Hohenheim and the University of the Western Cape, with the University of Pretoria and the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources as core partners and the University of Mpumalanga as associate partner.

Within the Centre, a Research Chair is created to advance the linkage between agri-food systems research and data science. The Research Chair will, together with the management team, lead and coordinate the activities of the Centre, and serve as a liaison between the Centre and the research groups at the partnering institutions (including the NRF-funded Research Chair on farming systems at the University of Mpumalanga). The duration of the contract position is tied to the project’s duration which ends December 2029. The position is financed by the DAAD with funds from the BMFTR, reporting directly to the Deputy Vice Chancellor responsible for Research and Innovation at the University of the Western Cape.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the following key performance areas:

• Establish and advance an independent research agenda aligned with the Centre’s research themes;
• Strengthen the research profile of the Centre via active participation, postdoctoral and PhD supervision, publications, and innovative contributions;
• Facilitate learning events affiliated to resilient food systems and agri-food data sciences;
• Spearhead the liaison between the Centre and the research groups at the partnering institutions in the consortium with the aim of deepening the synergistic relationships and creating possibilities for creating new opportunities and channels of funding;
• Work with the eResearch Office, the Information and Communication Services (ICS) on Research Data Management (RDM) and High Performance Computing issues related to agri-food systems;
• Facilitate research grants and learning and/or teaching stays for German doctoral students, university lecturers and (young) researchers in South Africa;
• Facilitate regular webinars and seminars on Resilient Food Systems and Agri-Food Data Science;
• Develop mechanisms for long term sustainability of the Centre of Excellence;
• Work with relevant departments on the establishment of agri-food data science short courses for the industry.

Minimum Requirements

• You must be a citizen of an EU member state.
• Applicants (m/f/d) should generally have lived in the Federal Republic of Germany for the last two years before applying. Close contact with a German university is also essential during the period abroad.
• Possession of a Ph.D. in one of the following fields: Data Science, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Food Systems/Agriculture with a demonstrated expertise in Data Science applications.
• Experience in teaching undergraduate and postgraduate data science courses at a German University.
• A track record of quality peer-reviewed publications in accredited journals and conferences, and research in data science, preferably in the context of Agri-food Systems.
• A track record of successful postgraduate supervision of both Masters and PhD students in Data Science and/or Agri-food Systems.
• Evidence of international presence in data science related research fields.
• Evidence of leadership experience and ability to work in multinational and multicultural research environments.

The Following Documents Must Be Submitted With The Application

• a cover letter outlining your interest.
• a separate description of your research vision for the Centre of Excellence.
• a curriculum vitae including a list of publications.
• contact information for three referees.
• a brief teaching dossier, preferably on data science and food systems related modules including teaching evaluations.

In your application, you are encouraged to highlight your strengths and include anything else you deem exceptional and outstanding to be considered by the selection panel. In addition, please attach a cover letter motivating your suitability, a detailed curriculum vitae including contact details of three referees, and your highest qualification to your online profile.

To be considered for this vacancy, you must click on the Apply for this Job link below or apply directly via UWC Careers at For any queries, please contact the Human Resources Department at /9763/9708/3551/3756 or email:

DISCLAIMER: By applying for the position, you consent to the University sharing your application, including curriculum vitae, with University stakeholders to process the application. In line with the University’s commitment to diversifying its workforce, preference will be given to suitably qualified applicants in line with our Employment Equity Targets. The official retirement age at UWC is 65 years. The University reserves the right to not make an appointment, make an appointment at a different level, seek additional candidates and may conduct competency assessments.