The Department of Soil Science at Stellenbosch University is inviting applications for a fully-funded PhD position in the field of Soil–Water–Plant Relations, focusing on water use efficiency and irrigation responses in Mediterranean climate systems.
🌍 About Stellenbosch University:
Stellenbosch University is one of South Africa’s leading research-intensive institutions, ranked among the top universities in Africa. It is internationally recognized for its excellence in agriculture, life sciences, and environmental research, with a strong commitment to innovation and solving global challenges such as climate change, food security, and sustainable farming. The Faculty of AgriSciences is known for its world-class facilities, interdisciplinary collaborations, and impactful research that supports both local and international agricultural development.
🔬 Preliminary Project Title:
Quantifying Water Use and Deficit Irrigation Responses in High-Yielding Nectarine Orchards under Mediterranean Climate Conditions
💧 The project will focus on:
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Measuring water use efficiency in orchard systems
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Understanding deficit irrigation strategies under changing climate conditions
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Investigating soil–plant–water relations in Mediterranean climates
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Contributing to sustainable water resource management for agriculture
This project is funded by the Water Research Commission (WRC), ensuring direct impact and relevance to South Africa’s agricultural and water security priorities.
👩🎓 Candidate Profile – Who Should Apply?
We seek a motivated and enthusiastic researcher with:
✅ Master’s degree in Soil Science, Horticulture, or related field
✅ Strong background or interest in soil–plant–water relations, irrigation, and/or crop ecophysiology
✅ Solid analytical and scientific writing skills
✅ A valid driver’s license (at least 1 year experience)
📝 Application Requirements:
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CV with academic transcripts
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Contact details of two academic referees
📬 Send details to:
munjonji@sun.ac.za (cc: visserj@sun.ac.za)
📆 Closing Date: 10 September 2025
🌟 Why Choose Stellenbosch?
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🌱 Be part of a top African university with a global reputation
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💧 Conduct applied research addressing water scarcity & sustainable farming
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🔬 Access state-of-the-art laboratories and experimental farms
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🤝 Collaborate with leading experts in soil science and irrigation research
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🌍 Live and study in Stellenbosch, a beautiful university town at the heart of South Africa’s wine and fruit-growing region
📢 This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to sustainable agriculture and climate-smart irrigation strategies while pursuing your PhD in a globally recognized academic environment.
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