Technical Development Specialist – Biological Agents; Agriculture Or Howick

Purpose of the Role

The Technical Development Specialist will ensure the provision of commercially viable, innovative and integrous biorational solutions by supporting the Company Regulatory Specialist, supply partners and the PPM platform with results from screening and registration trials.

• Develop protocols for product testing and validation.
• Conduct laboratory and field trials to evaluate product efficacy and safety.
• Maintain accurate records of research activities and results.

• Conduct registration trials according to DOA guidelines.
• Conduct product screening and development trials.
• Provide scientific data for regulatory documentation for regulatory approval.

• Analyse trial data using statistical tools, drawing and providing meaningful conclusions.
• Communicate findings to internal and external stakeholders.

• Identify process improvements in product development and support digital systems process.
• Support product decision making and evaluation of existing pipeline.
• Implement new research methodologies, best practices and technologies.
• Collaborate with research institutions, trial collaborators and industry experts.

• Participate in Crop Teams to provide feedback on product development status.
• Knowledge sharing by supporting teams with technical expertise.
• Support marketing efforts with popular articles relevant to our portfolio.
• Engage with stakeholders on product development and market communication.

• Align research activities with organisational objectives.
• Ensure scientific integrity in product development.

• MSc degree in a relevant field.

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a similar role, with comprehensive understanding of product registration requirements and processes (ESSENTIAL)
• Experience in conducting agricultural research trials, compliant to registration requirements of Act 36 of 1947 and presenting scientific reports from trials (ESSENTIAL)
• Understand trial protocols, collecting trial data, data analyses, data interpretation, report writing and interaction with trial contractors.
• Experience of trial data management on the ARM platform.
• SACNASP accreditation.
• Valid Driver’s license.
• Computer literate.

• Ability to analyse data, interpret information and prepare scientific reports.
• Detail orientated and the ability to prioritise and manage activities within set timelines.
• Analytical mind that can be proactive and understand outcomes.
• Fluency in English.
• Excellent numeracy ability.