agriculture

ARC Vacancies 2026: MSc & PhD Plant Breeding – Requirements, How To Apply & Step-by-Step

Bymyadmin

If you are looking to advance your career in Plant Breeding, Molecular Breeding, or Plant Biotechnology, the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) has exciting postgraduate contract opportunities for 2026.

The ARC-Grain Crops (ARC-GC) division in Potchefstroom is recruiting:

  • MSc Student – Plant Breeding (x5) – 2-year fixed-term contract
  • PhD Student – Plant Breeding (x3) – 3-year fixed-term contract

Both positions are funded by the National Department of Agriculture and offer market-related remuneration.

About the Agricultural Research Council (ARC)

The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) is one of South Africa’s leading research institutions in agriculture. ARC conducts cutting-edge research to improve crop production, food security, and agricultural sustainability.

The ARC-Grain Crops (ARC-GC) unit focuses on:

  • Crop improvement
  • Plant breeding
  • Molecular breeding
  • Biotechnology
  • Grain crop research and development

Location: Potchefstroom, South Africa
Industry: Research & Agriculture

MSc Student – Plant Breeding (x5 Posts)

Reference Number: ARC-GC 70
Location: Potchefstroom
Contract Duration: 2 Years (Fixed Term)
Closing Date: 03 March 2026
Salary: Market Related

Key Performance Areas

Successful candidates will:

  • Provide research support to Plant Breeding projects
  • Work closely with researchers, technical staff, and collaborators
  • Engage with stakeholders within research projects
  • Disseminate findings via conferences and publications
  • Ensure compliance with SHE/OHS policies

MSc Requirements

Applicants must:

  • Hold a BSc (Hons) in:
    • Agriculture
    • Crop Science
    • Plant Production
  • Have completed modules in Genetics and Plant Breeding
  • Demonstrate research capacity at Honours level
  • Be a South African Citizen
  • Have a valid driver’s licence (advantageous)

Required Attachments

  • Qualification certificates
  • Academic transcript
  • Proof of MSc registration
  • Certified supporting documents

PhD Student – Plant Breeding (x3 Posts)

Reference Number: ARC-GC 71
Location: Potchefstroom
Contract Duration: 3 Years (Fixed Term)
Closing Date: 03 March 2026
Salary: Market Related

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide research support to plant breeding projects
  • Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders
  • Publish research findings
  • Ensure SHE/OHS compliance

PhD Requirements

Applicants must:

  • Hold an MSc in:
    • Plant Breeding
    • Molecular Breeding
    • Plant Biotechnology
  • Demonstrate research capability
  • Be a South African Citizen
  • Have a valid driver’s licence (advantageous)

Required Attachments

  • Qualification certificate
  • Academic transcript
  • Proof of PhD registration
  • Supporting documents
  • Copy of driver’s licence

How To Apply for ARC Plant Breeding Positions 2026 (Step-by-Step Guide)

Follow these steps carefully to avoid disqualification:

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

Ensure you have:

  • Covering letter
  • Detailed CV
  • Certified copies of qualifications
  • Academic transcripts
  • Proof of university registration
  • Copy of driver’s licence
  • Three (3) contactable referees

Step 2: Visit the Official ARC Application Portal

Submit your application online via:

https://arcjobs.mcidirecthire.com/Vacancy

Step 3: Upload All Required Documents

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline

📅 Closing Date: 03 March 2026

Late applications will NOT be accepted.

Important Notes

  • Appointment subject to positive security clearance
  • Preference given to designated groups (Employment Equity Plan)
  • Equal Opportunity Employer
  • If you do not receive feedback within 4 weeks after closing date, consider your application unsuccessful
  • The ARC reserves the right not to appoint

Enquiries

For further information, contact:

Dr Kingstone Mashingaidze
Tel: (018) 299 6356

Why Apply for ARC Plant Breeding Opportunities?

These positions offer:

  • Hands-on research experience
  • Exposure to national agricultural projects
  • Publication and conference opportunities
  • Career advancement in agricultural research
  • Contribution to South Africa’s food security

If you are passionate about crop improvement and plant genetics, this opportunity at the Agricultural Research Council could be your next big career move.

Final Reminder

Application Deadline: 03 March 2026
Location: Potchefstroom
Contract: Fixed-Term

Apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Similar Posts