Job Description

Stellenbosch UniversityFaculty of AgriSciencesDepartment of Soil ScienceSenior Research Assistant (Job Level 9)(Two-year fixed-term contract)Ref. AW05/266/1024The Department of Soil Science is an integral part of the Plant and Soil programme at Stellenbosch University (SU), teaching core modules for students following this stream. The Department has a strong and growing postgraduate research programme with research projects aligned to both industry needs and global challenges. We deliver high quality graduates that are highly sought after in both the agricultural and environmental industries. In our research and teaching, we aim to provide scientific and objective solutions for the sustained use, management, and protection of our soil and water resources.Duties:Managing fruit industry-funded (South Africa Wine, Citrus Research International and HORTGRO) soil water management research projects, as primary- or co-investigator.Planning and conducting field research in soil water management and soil physical quality in fruit cropping systems.Analysing, interpreting and presenting soil and plant data, and writing research reports and scientific papers.Developing research proposals focused on soil physical research and soil water management.Sourcing and managing external research funds from various industry funding bodies (South Africa Wine, Citrus Research International, South African Table Grape Industry and HORTGRO).Developing national and international research and industry partnerships and networks.Involvement with community interaction and farmer engagement projects.Involvement with administrative duties at departmental, Faculty and University level.Requirements:MSc in Soil Science, with specialisation in soil physics.Knowledge of soil and plant water potentials and the measurement thereof.Proven research experience in soil water management of wine grapes, table grapes, citrus and apples.Project management of industry-related research projects (as primary-investigator or co-investigator).Experience and knowledge of most recent irrigation technologies (low delivery rate drip, drip, micro and flood irrigation) and how to schedule optimally with these technologies.Experience in soil classification, specifically in the Western Cape.Relevant experience in industry-related, applied research and engagement.A relevant level of computer literacy.Proficiency in statistics.Language proficiency for a multilingual university.A valid drivers licence that has been valid for one year or more as per US vehicle pool policy.Recommendations:None.

Careers24