Phd Bursary Programme: Soil Spectroscopy (four Years: Fixed Term Contract)

Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa

Agricultural Research Council

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Job Description

Conducting foundational and advanced research for an PhD-level dissertation
Mastering soil sample collection, preparation, and analytical procedures
Applying fundamental soil and crop science principles to research challenges
Working consistently and reliably to produce high-quality, publishable research.
Developing expertise in soil spectral data acquisition and interpretation
Undertaking learning and application of coding for data analysis, using programming languages such as R and/or Python.

Masters in Soil Science, Agriculture, Mathematics, Data Analysis or other similar quantitative disciplines.
A strong academic background and a keen interest in research are essential.
Applicants must be willing to learn and develop strong programming skills in R or a similar language.
Applicants must be comfortable travelling to remote areas to collect data.
A valid driver's license would be an advantage.
Applicants must meet the registration requirements for a PhD degree at a South African University.

Enquiries: Dr. Goodman Jezile, Tel: 012 310 2589
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 09 DECEMBER 2025
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 (as well as competency and leadership assessments).
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.