AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH COUNCIL (ARC) VACANCIES

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The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) is a premier science institution that conducts research with partners, develops human capital and foster innovation in support of the agricultural sector. It provides diagnostic, laboratory, analytical, agricultural engineering services, post-harvest technology development, agrochemical evaluation, consultation and advisory services, food processing technology services as well as various surveys and training interventions. Through its wider network of research institutes and experimental farms, the ARC provides a strong scientific base and a broadly distributed technology transfer capacity to the entire agricultural industry in South Africa. 
 
The ARC-Plant Health and Protection (ARC-PHP) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced, and dynamic person to the following position at Roodeplaat, Pretoria. 
 
RESEARCHER: INSECT ECOLOGY 
 
Key Performance Areas 
• Evaluate and develop biological control agents from natural biodiversity as part of the sustainable Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy for the management of agricultural crop pests of South Africa. 
• Undertake both field- and laboratory-based research on the development of IPM strategies. 
• Overseeing the mass-rearing of insect cultures and host plants at the Insectary in support of externally funded projects. 
• Activity source new research opportunities and write proposals for funding. 
• Publish and present research results in reputable scientific journals and at scientific congresses. 
• Produce popular articles to create awareness regarding biodiversity and sustainable farming systems. 
• Produce quarterly reports, annual reports, and client reports. 
• Provide mentoring to technician staff, and supervision of postgraduate students. 
 
Requirements: 
• PhD with Entomology/Ecology (or similar) as the major, or MSc with 5 years of relevant experience. 
• Experience of research undertaken in Biological Control using insects or Entomopathogenic nematodes will be an advantage. 
• Experience of insecticide application will be an advantage. 
• Experienced in research design, data collection, analysis, and interpretation. 
• Proven record of publication of scientific papers, report writing, and compiling scientific and popular presentations. 
• Willingness to undertake local fieldwork when required. 
• Proven track record of writing proposals and securing funding. 
• Experience in report writing, and facilitation in training events. 
• Experience of networking and co-ordination of projects at national level. 
• Proficiency in MS office Suite. 
• A valid code B or EB driver’s license. 
 
Enquiries: Dr Roger Price, Tel: (012) 808 8120

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 24 APRIL 2024 

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. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months’ probation period. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act. 
 
Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (Including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver’s license) must be attached on the form. 
 
❖ Click on the link to apply: https://tinyurl.com/3fsubhb2
 
NB: Non-RSA citizens with work permit must attach certified copies as well as the names and particulars of three (3) traceable referees. 
 
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. The company has the right not to appoint.