Job Description

• Undertake MSc studies focused on animal nutrition and feed evaluation in line with the approved research objectives,
• Participate in the planning, implementation, and coordination of feeding trials and/or in vitro nutritional experiments,
• Conduct feed sampling, nutrient analyses, digestibility assessments, and assist with accurate data capturing and record keeping,
• Evaluate rumen fermentation parameters, animal performance indicators, and feed efficiency using appropriate analytical and statistical methods,
• Contribute to research activities by providing technical and logistical support to supervisors and research staff,
• Engage with relevant stakeholders and collaborators within affiliated research projects,
• Compile monthly progress reports detailing research activities, results, and data summaries,
• Prepare scientific outputs, including presentations, the MSc dissertation, and contributions to peer-reviewed publications where applicable.

• An Honours degree (or equivalent) in Animal Science, Animal Nutrition, and Agriculture.
• A strong academic record.
• Foundational knowledge of ruminant nutrition and feed evaluation.
• Experience with feed chemical analysis, diet formulation, or fermentation techniques will be an advantage.
• Familiarity with statistical analysis software (e.g. SAS, GraphPad Prism, GenStat) will be beneficial.
• Interest in sustainable livestock production and agricultural by-product utilization.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and within a multidisciplinary research team.
• A valid driving license will be an advantage.

Enquiries: Dr I MALEBANA. Tel: (012) 529 9483
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 05 FEBRUARY 2026
A 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.
Preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.
Applications accompanied by a covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent (3) contactable referees, certified copies of certificates, supporting documents and a copy of driver's license must be attached on the form.
A 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. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months' probation period. The organisation reserves the right not to appoint

Skills Required