Exciting Opportunity at ARC-VIMP, Roodeplaat
The Agricultural Research Council – Vegetable, Industrial and Medicinal Plants (ARC-VIMP) is currently hiring four (4) Research Assistants for a three-year fixed-term contract in Crop Protection and Seed Science. Based at Roodeplaat, Pretoria, this role is ideal for candidates with hands-on experience in agronomy, microbiology, and greenhouse management. If you’re passionate about plant health and applied research, this position offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to national agricultural innovation and food security.
About ARC-VIMP
ARC-VIMP is a key division of the ARC, responsible for research and development of sustainable plant production and protection technologies. The team focuses on crop improvement, integrated pest and disease management, and quality seed systems across a variety of vegetable, industrial, and medicinal plants.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct routine microbiological laboratory work including:
- Growth media and buffer preparation
- Isolation, purification, and inoculation techniques
- Nucleic acid-based diagnostic procedures
- Manage and maintain plants in greenhouses following strict sanitation protocols
- Collect and process field and lab samples and enter research data accurately
- Support the coordination of work activities and supervise junior team members as needed
- Maintain a high standard of quality assurance by complying with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)
- Assist in pathogen inoculations, disease scoring, and other plant pathology procedures
- Follow all Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) guidelines
- Deliver verbal and written reports to supervisors regularly
Minimum Requirements
- Grade 12 (NQF 4) with at least 3 years of experience in Crop Protection or Agronomy
OR
Grade 10 (NQF 2) with at least 8 years of experience in the same fields
Technical Experience Required
- Laboratory work in plant virus, fungi, and/or nematode testing
- Handling of greenhouse crops including:
- Propagation
- Planting
- Disease monitoring
- Harvesting
- Knowledge of laboratory aseptic techniques and soil sterilization methods
- Experience with disease resistance screening and seed quality testing is a plus
- Understanding of GLP and basic quality standards
- A valid driver’s license is essential
How to Apply
Closing Date: 07 August 2025
When submitting your application, make sure to include:
- A cover letter referencing Job Ref: ARC-VIMP0978
- An updated CV with at least three recent and contactable referees
- Certified copies of qualifications and supporting documentation
- A valid driver’s license copy
- A SAQA evaluation for any foreign qualifications
Enquiries:
Dr. Julia Mulabisana
Tel: (012) 808 800
Why This Role Matters
This opportunity places you at the forefront of South Africa’s food and seed security efforts. Working alongside top researchers, you’ll gain deep exposure to scientific plant protection strategies, fieldwork, and data management, making a meaningful impact on national agriculture systems.
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