Job Description

Project Management & Coordination
The Senior Researcher is responsible for the coordination and supports the management of Research Projects across the Institute; these include supporting and coordination of the following aspects of the projects

• Project planning and Initiation.
• Equipment and Research Materials.
• Project Human Resources.
• Project Finances.
• Risk Management and Mitigation.
• Monitoring, Evaluation, reporting and project close out.

Research, Development, and Innovation
The Senior Researcher is responsible for the coordination and supports the management of Research, development, and innovation, these include the supporting and coordination of the following Research aspects

• Invention.
• Translation.
• Commercialization.
• Adoption and Use.

Research Collaboration
The Senior Researcher is responsible for the coordination and supports the management of strategic research collaboration and collaboration opportunities; these include the supporting and coordination of

• Strategic Research partnerships / networks / collaborators.
• Intra-Inter Institutional Collaboration & Partnerships.

Human Capacity Building
The Senior Researcher is responsible for coordination and supports the management of Human Capacity Development that includes support of

• Project staff and students.
• Self.

• PhD or DSc in Agricultural Economics, Agribusiness, Business Administration, or a related field.
• At least 5 years post PhD experience or 5 years proven relevant experience in business development or commercialization.
• Authored or co-authors a minimum of 12 peer review publications relevant to the position.
• Experience working with agribusinesses is an advantage.
• Market research and customer segmentation skills.
• Knowledge in business modelling and strategic planning.
• Sales and partnership development.
• Good ability to write proposals and investor communication.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving ability.
• Entrepreneurial mindset and self-motivated.
• Proven track record of taking products or services to market.
• Strong knowledge of value chains and market systems.
• Proven track record of mentoring and supervising/co-supervising other researchers and students' development.
• Registration with a scientific and professional body will be an added advantage.
• NRF rating of at least C1 or higher will be an added advantage.
• A valid driver's licence.

Enquiries: Dr Lerato Matsaunyane, Tel: (012) 808 8000
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATION: 28 OCTOBER 2025
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 and preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months' probation period. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.
Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (Including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver's license and at least three contactable referees) must be attached on the form.
NB: Non-RSA citizens with work permit must attach certified copies.
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. The company has the right not to appoint.

Skills Required