Three things happening in SA agriculture today, 25 September 2020

Good morning, Mzansi. We have come to the end of the week and there is no better way to end off than with a selection of exciting opportunities and events that could change your life.

On the events list is the final day of a crop growers virtual event that will equip you with all the knowledge you need to become the best grower you can be.

And then we have exciting opportunities: The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) and the department of environment, forestry and fisheries are inviting professionals to apply for positions within their organisations.

1

Crop growers virtual conference

It is the final day of the Syngenta Fields of Innovation virtual event that kicked off on 21 September 2020.

Growers and the entire value chain were invited to connect with international experts virtually in an event that puts growers at the heart of everything.

Today attendees will be able to discover new solutions to enable them to maximise the output of the crops that they grow. Through innovation they will also be able to create value and tap into an unmatched level of quality.

To join in on the virtual event book your seat virtually.

2

Last day to apply for research positions at ARC

Today is the last day for scientists to get their applications in for two exciting research positions at the Agricultural Research Council (ARC).

The ARC is inviting two scientists for the positions of senior researcher of agro-processing and researcher of crop protection. The two candidates must be hardworking scientists and self-starters who will conduct research on tropical and sub-tropical fruit crops in the field of agro-processing and in the field of entomology.

The requirements for the senior researcher position in agro-processing include a PhD in plant sciences, preferably in the agro-processing or post-harvest or food science disciplines, plus five years’ post-PhD work experience.

The agro-processing senior researcher will be reporting directly to the research team manager.

The requirements for the researcher of crop production include a PhD in entomology with at least two years’ applicable experience in the identification, detection, and management of pests on sub-tropical crops.

The crop production researcher will be reporting directly to the senior researcher of crop protection entomology.

Applications need to be accompanied by a cover letter, detailed CV (including certificates, supporting documents and a copy of a driver’s license.)

Non South African citizens or work permit holders must attach certified copies, as well as the names and particulars of three traceable referees and they must be forwarded to Dr YP Pakela-Jezile, Senior Manager Research, ARC -TSC, Private Bag X 11208, Nelspruit 1200.

Applications can also be forwarded by e-mail to: hritsc@arc.agric.za.

Incomplete applications will not be considered. To get a detailed description for the position follow this link.

Applications close on the 25 September 2020 so hurry up.

3Medical doctor position in Antarctica

The department of environment, forestry and fisheries is inviting medical doctors to apply for a 15-month post in the Antarctic SANAE base.

Applicants need to be in possession of a relevant medical qualification and must be recognised to practice as a general practitioner (GP) in South Africa. The applicants must also be registered with the medical board, the Health Professions Council of South Africa or similar authoritative body with at least five years’ experience.

The position will pay the successful candidate an all-inclusive package of R 1 057 326 per annum.

Applicants must have practical experience in the following fields:

• General medicine, dermatology, ophthalmology, ENT, psychiatry and mental health counselling.
• Secondary areas include emergency management, anaesthetics and intensive care, basic surgery, orthopaedics, obstetrics and gynaecology, occupational and industrial medicine, dentistry, radiography, physiotherapy and sports medicine.
• Training may be provided in some of these areas before departure.
• Applicants must provide proof of registration as a medical practitioner and details of any suspensions or other actions from relevant medical registering bodies.

The successful applicant will spend a full year (December 2020 to February 2022) at SANAE base. There is no option to return to South Africa before February 2022. Although the base is well-equipped with e-mail, fax and satellite telephone facilities, the applicant has to be self-sufficient and self-motivated.

For enquiries you can contact Mr. N Devanunthan on 021 405 9482.

To access the application form visit the department website.

Applications close on 12 October 2020.

• Do you have an upcoming event that should be on Food For Mzansi’s watchlist? Drop us an email to diary@foodformzansi.co.za and we’ll do our best to include it in this weekday feature.