Agricultural Research Scientist Job Vacancy in Mafeteng, Lesotho – Agriculture & Research

Job Description

Position:Agricultural Research Scientist

Company:Syngenta Lesotho

Location:Mafeteng, Lesotho

Experience:5+ years in agricultural research, plant breeding, or related fields

Education:Ph.D. in Plant Science, Agronomy, or related discipline

Employment Type:Full-time

Industry:Agriculture & Research

Department:Research & Development

Salary:SSP 350,000 – 500,000 per month

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Syngenta Lesotho is a leading global agriscience company dedicated to sustainable agriculture and food security across Africa. With a strong presence in Lesotho, Syngenta partners with local farmers, research institutions, and government agencies to develop high‑yielding, climate‑resilient crop varieties. The company’s mission is to enable farmers to grow more food while preserving natural resources, aligning with national goals for agricultural development and economic growth. As part of its commitment to innovation, Syngenta Lesotho invests heavily in cutting‑edge research facilities, field trials, and capacity‑building programs that empower the agricultural community. This environment offers a unique platform for professionals seeking to make a tangible impact on Lesotho Jobs, Jobs in Lesotho, and broader regional food systems.

Job Overview

The Agricultural Research Scientist will lead advanced research projects focused on improving staple crops such as maize, sorghum, and beans. Working within the Research & Development department, the successful candidate will design and execute experiments, analyze genetic data, and collaborate with cross‑functional teams to translate scientific discoveries into practical solutions for farmers. This role is central to Syngenta Lesotho’s strategy to deliver innovative, high‑performance seeds that address challenges such as drought, pests, and soil degradation. The scientist will also contribute to scientific publications, present findings at conferences, and support the company’s outreach initiatives that promote sustainable farming practices. The position offers a dynamic blend of laboratory work, field trials, and stakeholder engagement, providing a comprehensive view of the agricultural value chain in Lesotho.

For more information about Syngenta Lesotho and its commitment to agricultural excellence, please visit Lesotho Job Search.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage research projects aimed at developing drought‑tolerant and disease‑resistant crop varieties.
• Conduct molecular genetics, phenotyping, and bioinformatics analyses to identify promising traits.
• Coordinate field trials across multiple locations in Lesotho, ensuring rigorous data collection and compliance with local regulations.
• Collaborate with agronomists, extension officers, and farmer groups to validate research outcomes in real‑world settings.
• Prepare detailed scientific reports, peer‑reviewed publications, and technical briefs for internal and external audiences.
• Present research findings at national and international conferences, enhancing Syngenta’s reputation as a leader in agricultural innovation.
• Mentor junior scientists, interns, and local university partners, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and capacity building.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies, regulatory changes, and market trends to inform research priorities.

Required Skills

• Expertise in plant genetics, molecular biology, and quantitative trait analysis.
• Proficiency with statistical software (R, SAS) and bioinformatics tools (GenomeStudio, PLINK).
• Strong experimental design skills and experience managing large‑scale field trials.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities, with a track record of publishing scientific papers.
• Ability to work collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams and engage effectively with external stakeholders.
• Project management competence, including budgeting, timeline adherence, and risk mitigation.
• Fluency in English; knowledge of Sesotho is an advantage for community outreach.

Education

A Ph.D. in Plant Science, Agronomy, Genetics, or a closely related field is required. Candidates with a Master’s degree combined with extensive post‑doctoral experience may also be considered.

Experience

Minimum of five years of hands‑on research experience in crop improvement, preferably within a commercial agriscience environment. Experience conducting multi‑location field trials in Sub‑Saharan Africa is highly valued.

Salary

The compensation package ranges from SSP 350,000 to SSP 500,000 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The package includes performance‑based bonuses and comprehensive benefits.

Benefits

• Health insurance covering medical, dental, and vision care.
• Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
• Paid parental and annual leave.
• Company‑provided transportation allowance for field activities.
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art research facilities and laboratories.

Training

• Continuous professional development through workshops, conferences, and online courses.
• Mentorship programs with senior scientists and industry experts.
• Opportunities to lead collaborative projects with international research institutes.

Working Environment

Syngenta Lesotho offers a collaborative, innovation‑driven workplace that blends modern laboratory settings with extensive field sites across the country. Employees benefit from a supportive culture that values scientific rigor, sustainability, and community impact. The role involves regular travel to research farms, providing exposure to diverse agro‑ecological zones and direct interaction with farming communities.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit an online application through the company’s career portal, attaching a detailed CV, a cover letter outlining relevant experience, and copies of key publications. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview followed by an on‑site assessment at the Mafeteng research facility.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Syngenta Lesotho is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, race, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected characteristic.