Senior Research Technician : Plant Breeding (SORGHUM) (Potchefstroom) needed at Agricultural Research Council

Description

• Assists the breeder in preparation of experimental material. 
• Assist with trial field preparation, management of trial fields.
• Implement the crossings as planned by the breeder and ensures accurate research data collection.
• Pro-actively provide technical input within the context of the research projects.
• Provides timeous and reliable data which supports the objectives of the research project. 
• Correctly apply techniques within guideline, standards, and references.
• Ensures cost-effective utilization of research resources, complete purchase requisitions, obtain quotations and purchasing of required research materials and consumables following the financial prescriptions.
• Technology Partnerships.
• Assist in hosting field days.
• Assist in communication with farmers and extension officers.
• Involvement in the innovation and Commercialization activities.
• Handles the submission to request the approval to recruit temporary workers and deployment, supervision and timesheet preparation and submission to HCM.
• Evidence of contributions in publications (e.g. popular publications, scientific publications) and/or involvement in presentations (e.g. at farmers’ days, combined congress, etc.)
• Regulatory Compliance with the Health and Safety procedures.

Requirements

• MTech. Degree in Plant Breeding or related field (Plant Science, Plant Production/ Agronomy, Genetics/Plant Biotechnology), with 2 years applicable experience.
• B Degree or B Hons Degree; B.Tech Degree, or National Higher Diploma; with 6 years applicable experience.
• National Diploma (3 years) with 8 years applicable experience.
• Proficiency in MS office suite.
• Valid EC drivers’ license.
• Experience in conventional plant breeding techniques will be an added advantage.
• Ability to set-up and manage research trials under greenhouse and field conditions will be an added advantage.
• Good understanding of weed control, soil cultivation methods, fertilization, spraying for disease and pest control, and sustainable field management will be an added advantage.
• Good verbal and written communication and presentation skills.
• Knowledge of the application of molecular biology tools is an added advantage.
• Registration with relevant scientific body will be an added advantage.