Kickstart Your Career with the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) Internship Programme 2025/2027 – Dive into Innovation in Agriculture!
ARC invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for their Plant Biotechnology Internship Programme.
The deadline for applications is 4 November 2025 – don’t miss the chance to work at the Agricultural Research Council’s cutting‑edge research centre in Pretoria.
What is the ARC Internship Programme?
The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) is a leading science organisation that tackles South Africa’s food‑security challenges. They’re looking for bright teens and recent graduates to join the Vegetable, Industrial and Medicinal Plants (ARC‑VIMP) division in Roodeplaat.
These internships give you a front‑row seat to the science behind new crop varieties. You’ll help scientists use DNA markers to grow plants that eat more food, resist pests and thrive in hot conditions.
Why you should join
- Hands‑on learning – you will actually set up experiments, collect plant samples and run a real DNA machine.
- Work with experts – breeders, researchers and data scientists will guide you every step of the way.
- Build a CV that shines – you’ll publish in scientific journals, share your findings on blogs and help the company file patents.
- Future job possibilities – many graduates go on to work at universities, NGOs, or private‑sector agro‑companies.
What you’ll do every day
- Design experiments with plant breeders to test new marker techniques.
- Keep up with science – read the latest research papers and bring fresh ideas to the lab.
- Record and analyse data – use a spreadsheet and software to make sure the results are accurate.
- Teach teammates – share your knowledge with undergraduate students and lab techs.
- Write reports and papers – you’ll learn how to write clear, concise science documents.
- Follow safety rules – ARC has strict health & safety standards – you’ll help keep the lab safe for everyone.
This variety of tasks means you’ll walk away with both scientific skills and leadership experience.
Who should apply?
| Requirement | What it means |
|---|---|
| Degree | MSc or BSc in Plant Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Genomics, Plant Breeding, or Genetics. |
| Tech know‑how | Comfortable with molecular biology techniques, DNA markers, and data‑analysis tools. |
| Attention to detail | Good at taking accurate measurements, recording data and planning experiments. |
| Communication | Can talk clearly, write well, and explain ideas to others. |
| Computer skills | Excel and other office tools are a must. |
| Teamwork | Able to guide and work with others, including spotting safety hazards. |
If you meet these points, you’re likely a good fit.
Pay and Conditions
ARC offers a competitive stipend that matches the level of work you’ll do. New interns will start on a six‑month probation; if you pass, your position is made permanent. The Council values diversity, so applicants from designated groups get priority. A basic security clearance is required.
How to Apply
Send a short cover letter, your CV and three referees to ARC. You’ll also need:
- Certified copies of your degree certificates and other qualifications.
- A driver’s licence copy (if you’ll need to travel).
- Any other documents ARC asks for.
Apply here – the online portal link takes you straight to the application form.
Tip: If you’re looking for additional funding or scholarships, check out the SETA Bursaries you can still apply for this year – they offer great support for science students. Visit their page here.
Need more help?
For questions, call Dr. I Gazendam at (012) 808 8000. He’s ready to help you see if this internship is right for you.
Don’t Wait – Apply Before 4 November 2025!
Take this chance to be part of a team that creates tomorrow’s food. Good luck – we’re eager to welcome bright minds like yours to ARC’s research family!
