PURPOSE OF THE ROLE
To support the development, execution, and interpretation of agronomic trials that enhance product performance, generate scientific insight, and inform marketing and commercial strategies. The role involves close collaboration with clients, research partners and internal teams to ensure high-quality data generation, technical service delivery, and the effective positioning of Afrikelp products and crop solutions.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Trial Design, Execution, and Data Analysis
· Plan, execute, and manage controlled agronomic trials across various crops.
· Develop detailed protocols and SOPs based on current scientific literature and best practices.
· Manage internal teams to ensure data quality, adherence to protocols, and timely delivery of results.
· Perform rigorous data analysis using statistical software (especially R/RStudio) to extract meaningful insights.
· Ensure trial data is presented in a scientifically sound, visually compelling, and commercially relevant format.
Technical Advisory & Client Engagement
· Provide agronomic and technical support to farmers, distributors, and internal teams.
· Translate trial data and research findings into practical on-farm recommendations.
· Investigate and resolve technical product queries or client complaints, producing clear and detailed reports.
· Maintain strong relationships with strategic partners, distributors, growers, and relevant industry bodies.
Scientific Contribution & Knowledge Integration
· Stay abreast of emerging trends in plant science, soil health, crop nutrition, and biostimulants—particularly seaweed extracts.
· Contribute to internal product development initiatives and support expansion of existing offerings.
· Present findings at industry events, internal meetings, and scientific platforms.
· Collaborate on written content for peer-reviewed journals, popular articles, and technical bulletins.
Internal Collaboration & Strategy Alignment
· Work closely with the Applied Science Manager and other internal stakeholders to align research priorities with company goals.
· Support the marketing and sales teams by providing technical input for campaigns and training sessions.
· Contribute to Afrikelp’s broader innovation and sustainability goals through ongoing professional development and cross-department collaboration.
· Responsible for managing and overseeing department interns, including allocation of tasks, on‑the‑job training, and ongoing supervision.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Qualifications & Certifications
· MSc or PhD in Agriculture, Plant Science, Plant Pathology, Plant Breeding, or a related field (required).
· AVCASA in Crop Protection and/or BASOS/FERTASA certification (preferred).
· SACNASP registration or eligibility will be advantageous.
Skills & Experience
· 3–5 years of experience in agronomic research or a technical role within the agricultural sector.
· Proven experience designing and conducting agricultural trials.
· Proven experience with client engagement (end user)
· Demonstrated involvement in writing or contributing to scientific publications; authorship of peer-reviewed articles will be advantageous.
· Proficient in R/RStudio or similar statistical analysis tools.
· Strong knowledge of plant nutrition, crop production systems, and soil science.
· Experience working with liquid seaweed biostimulants is highly beneficial.
· Familiarity with GIS, remote sensing, and precision agriculture tools.
· Valid driver’s licence
Soft Skills & Attributes
· Strong critical thinking and data interpretation abilities.
· Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
· Capable of working both independently and within a team.
· Willingness to travel extensively and work in field conditions.
· Highly organised, proactive, and detail-oriented.
· Comfortable presenting technical information to both scientific and commercial audiences.
Pay: R60 000,00 per month
Work Location: In person
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