Msc Student: Plant Pathology

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute research activities focused on community engagement in plant health biosecurity in South Africa’s major banana-growing regions.
• Collect and analyse data on perceptions, knowledge, and attitudes of smallholder banana growers and homeowners regarding Banana bunchy top virus.
• Regularly provide feedback on progress (verbal and/or written) to supervisor.
• Contribute towards the dissemination of outcomes through presentations and publications.

• BSc in Agriculture Plant Pathology/ Plant Science or relevant qualification.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.
• Interest in plant health, biosecurity, food security and community-based research.
• Willingness to travel and conduct fieldwork in rural and peri-urban settings.
• Cultural awareness and sensitivity in community-based research environments.
• Excellent understanding of statistical tools for data analysis.
• Valid driver’s licence.

Enquiries:
Dr S Ximba-Majikijela, Email:
Ximba Sic.za

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 19 February 2026

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 and 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.