Company: Agricultural Research Council (ARC)
Location: Roodeplaat, Gauteng
Job Type: Contract (3 Years)
Closing Date: 19 November 2025
Reference Number: VIMP-VIMP091010
Industry: Plant Biotechnology / Molecular Biology / Genomics
Work Level: Skilled
Salary: Market Related
About the Agricultural Research Council
The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) is South Africa’s premier agricultural research institution, committed to advancing innovation, sustainability, and scientific excellence in agriculture.
ARC promotes research in plant biotechnology, molecular breeding, genomics, and genetics to strengthen food security, crop improvement, and technology transfer. The organisation also provides a diverse, inclusive, and stimulating work environment in line with the Employment Equity Act, fostering career growth for researchers, technicians, and students.
Position Overview
The ARC’s VIMP Division invites applications for a Junior Researcher – DNA Marker Technologies on a three-year fixed-term contract based in Roodeplaat, Gauteng.
This position focuses on managing and implementing research projects in molecular breeding and DNA marker technologies. The successful candidate will work closely with breeders and senior researchers to design experiments, analyse data, supervise students, and contribute to publications.
The role provides hands-on experience with cutting-edge molecular tools, technology transfer, and research dissemination, supporting national and international breeding programmes.
Key Responsibilities
The Junior Researcher will be expected to:
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Manage and implement research projects on DNA marker technologies, including molecular breeding experiments.
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Collaborate with breeders to design and execute research experiments supporting various breeding programmes.
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Stay updated on latest developments in DNA marker technologies through literature review and analysis of scientific publications.
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Actively identify and secure new research opportunities and contribute to proposal development for personal and collaborative projects.
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Compile internal and external progress reports for research projects.
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Capture, analyse, and interpret genetic and experimental data accurately.
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Disseminate research findings through peer-reviewed publications, popular articles, and conference presentations.
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Supervise, mentor, and provide guidance to postgraduate students, research technicians, and research assistants.
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Provide leadership in supervising or co-supervising students and interns within the division.
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Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations in laboratory and fieldwork settings.
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Work under the guidance and support of senior researchers to achieve research objectives.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
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BSc Degree or BSc (Hons) in Plant Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Genomics, Plant Breeding, or Genetics.
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Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a relevant scientific research environment.
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Strong background in molecular biology, plant molecular markers, genomics, and molecular breeding technologies.
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Experience in bioinformatics and genetic data analysis tools.
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Coding/programming experience for data analysis is advantageous.
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Proven accuracy in data collection and attention to detail.
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Proficiency in MS Office Suite, especially Excel.
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Minimum of 1 peer-reviewed publication in the relevant scientific field.
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Demonstrated ability to write research proposals independently.
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Experience presenting research results at national conferences.
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Competence in communicating scientific findings effectively, both verbally and in writing.
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Proven track record in mentoring and supervising students.
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Knowledge of health and safety procedures applicable to research settings.
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Valid Code B driver’s license.
Competencies and Skills
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Analytical and critical thinking skills to solve complex research problems.
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Strong organisation and project management skills.
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Ability to work independently and as part of a research team.
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Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
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Commitment to quality, accuracy, and compliance in research work.
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Flexibility and adaptability to dynamic research environments and experimental requirements.
Remuneration and Benefits
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Competitive market-related remuneration package commensurate with responsibilities and expertise.
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Exposure to advanced molecular breeding technologies and genomics research.
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Opportunity to develop professional, technical, and leadership skills within a national research institution.
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Appointment is subject to positive security clearance and competency assessments.
Note: Preference will be given to candidates in accordance with the ARC Employment Equity Plan.
Application Process
Applicants must submit the following supporting documents:
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Covering letter detailing motivation and suitability for the role.
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Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
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Certified copies of qualifications and supporting documents.
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Copy of driver’s license.
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At least three recent contactable referees.
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SAQA evaluation report for foreign qualifications.
Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive a response within four weeks after the closing date should consider their applications unsuccessful. The ARC reserves the right not to appoint.
For enquiries regarding this position, contact Dr Inge Gazendum at Tel: 012 808 8060.
Equal Opportunity
The ARC is an equal opportunity employer, committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Preference will be given to candidates in line with the ARC Employment Equity Plan.
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