RESEARCH TEAM MANAGER: PLANT BREEDING

The ARC-Tropical and Subtropical Crops (ARC-TSC) seeks to appoint experienced and dynamic persons to the following position at Nelspruit in Mpumalanga Province: Research Team Manager – Plant Breeding


Reporting directly to the Senior Manager of Research, this position requires a hardworking and experienced
manager to lead the Crop Breeding team and be responsible for the overall management of crop breeding
related research on citrus and subtropical fruits.

Key Performance Areas:

  • Initiates, coordinates and manages projects. Coordinates project plan with the Senior Manager.
  • Manages people within projects and ensures optimal utilisation.
  • Compiles and manages project budgets.
  • Ensure all projects within the Division are properly managed and to the accepted scientific and client
    standards.
  • Provide leadership with regard to research within the Institute.
  • Actively sources new national/ international research opportunities, assist with proposals writing.
  • Plans and coordinates research with single or multi-disciplinary team
  • Identifies and prioritises the need for resources (equipment and material) in project(s) and manages them accordingly

Requirements:

  • PhD in Plant Breeding / Plant Genetics / Biotechnology or Molecular Breeding Horticulture or related discipline.
  • At least 10 years’ relevant post-PhD experience in the management of research teams.
  • Proven research and managerial record of accomplishment in the field of plant breeding related disciplines.
  • Proven record of accomplishment of applying biotechnology tools in plant improvement with the ability
    to develop a molecular breeding strategy for fruit crops.
  • International recognition in the field of plant germplasm conservation in order to establish innovative
    gene bank management strategies to meet global standards.
  • Minimum of 15 peer-reviewed scientific publications.
  • Proven experience in attracting externally funded projects.
  • Proven experience in human and financial management.
  • Proven experience in project and programme management.
  • Experience in networking with national and international clients, stakeholders and researchers.
  • Excellent interpersonal, project management, administrative and communication skills across all levels.
  • Proficiency in MS Office Suite.
  • Proven experience in report writing and compiling of presentations.
  • Ability to work as part of a team as well as independently.
  • Registration with a scientific and professional body will be an added advantage.
  • Programme and financial management, planning and organizing skills.
  • NRF rating will be an added advantage.
  • Valid EB or CI driver license.

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 and preference will be given

Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver’s license) must be e-mailed to hritsc@arc.agric.za.

NB: Non-RSA citizens with work permit must attach certified copies as well as the names and
particulars of three (3) traceable referees.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 16 JANUARY 2023

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