Research Assistantship, Water Research Commission, South Africa

The Water Research Commission of South Africa is sponsoring a research project on drought tolerance of indigenous and underutilized crops.
An important aspect of the research is to calibrate and test crop models using experimental data collected in this project. The aim is develop a tool that can be used to investigate production options for small scale farmers in South Africa.
The successful candidate will work with experienced South African crop scientists to select appropriate models, determine model parameters and calibrate and test models for local conditions. Research outcomes will include chapters in a research report, papers in scientific journals and possibly a Ph.D. thesis.
The period of the assistantship is for either two years (post doctoral fellow) or three years (Ph.D. student).. Anticipated commencement date is September 2009 or as soon possible thereafter. The person will be based in Durban, South Africa.
The ideal candidate will have:
a M.Sc. or Ph.D. in crop science, agronomy, soil science, agrometeorology or related field,
knowledge in crop modelling and crop water relations, and
proven ability to effectively use software to quantitatively analyse crop experimental data and simulate crop and soil processes.
Furthermore the candidate needs:
the capacity to conduct independent research, and
the ability to communicate effectively and write scientific papers.
Assistantships will cover a stipend and full tuition fees if applicable. For further information on the project, please contact Dr. Abraham Singels (abraham.singels-at-sugar.org.za, +27836554092) or Prof. Albert T. Modi (modiat-at-ukzn.ac.za, +27722074325).
Send your applications with cover letter, detailed CV, publication list and contact details of three referees to Prof. Modi.
Closing date: 30 August 2009 or until a suitable candidate has been identified.