Are you passionate about advancing your career in the agricultural sciences? The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) offers an incredible opportunity for students pursuing doctoral studies in agricultural-related fields. If you have a Master’s degree in Agricultural Sciences or a related field, this ARC PDP Doctoral Bursary could be your gateway to further research and development in the agricultural industry.
Focus Areas of Agricultural Studies for the ARC PDP Bursary
The ARC PDP Doctoral Bursary provides a diverse range of research fields for students to specialize in. These include:
1. Plant Sciences
- Agronomy
- Plant pathology/Virology
- Microbiology
- Plant Breeding
- Soil & Water
- Horticulture
- Analytical Chemistry
- Geographic Information System (GIS)
- Entomology
- Earth Observation
- Mycology
- Crop Protection
- Agro-Processing & Product Development
- Natural Products Chemistry
- Remote Sensing
- Bacteriology
- Marker Assisted Breeding
- Data Science
- Environmental Restoration
- Mine Rehabilitation
- Nematology
- Weed Science
2. Biotechnology
- Bioinformatics
- Genome Engineering
- Novel Crop Development in Plants
- Molecular Breeding in Plants
- Molecular Pathology in Plants and Animals
- Biofuels and Renewable Energy
- Plant Tissue Culture and Food Science
- Classical Virology
- Aquaculture
- Zoology
- Life Sciences
- Ethnoveterinary Medicine
- Biochemistry
- Veterinary Technology
- Taxonomy
- Genetics
- Veterinary Virology
- Toxicology
3. Agricultural Engineering
- Agricultural Mechanization
- Irrigation Engineering
- Farm Structure and Farm Infrastructure
- Post-Harvest and Agro-Processing
- Agrometeorology
- Bio-resource Engineering
- Agricultural Engineering
- Precision Agriculture
Bursary Requirements
To be eligible for the ARC PDP Doctoral Bursary, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Educational Requirements:
- Applicants should hold a Master’s Degree in Agricultural Sciences or a related field.
- The candidate must be registered or accepted for doctoral studies in Agricultural Science or a related field at a South African university.
- Other Requirements:
- Proof of registration or acceptance by the university for the doctoral studies.
- Willingness to work and study simultaneously.
- Students must be South African citizens and enrolled in a South African university.
- Preference will be given to designated groups as per the ARC Employment Equity Act Plan.
Terms of the Bursary
- Bursary Value: The bursary offers a non-taxable amount of R160,000 per annum for successful candidates.
- Payment Structure: The bursary will be paid in 12 monthly instalments upon signing the bursary agreement.
- Expenses Covered: The bursary will cover tuition fees, accommodation, transport, food, and any other study-related expenses.
- Workplace Training: Successful candidates will also have the opportunity to gain real-world research experience through workplace training during academic holidays, under the guidance of an assigned mentor from the ARC.
Mentorship and Career Development
One of the most exciting aspects of this bursary is the opportunity for mentorship. Each recipient will be allocated a mentor from the ARC who will assist them in developing their research skills, working on real-life projects, and enhancing their overall academic experience. This mentorship is crucial in helping students apply theoretical knowledge in practical research settings, which is a valuable skill in both academic and professional spheres.
Additionally, students are expected to participate in workplace training during their academic breaks, providing an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience while continuing with their studies.
Also check: Bursary Application Checklist: Documents You Must Have
How to Apply
Applications for the ARC PDP Doctoral Bursary must be submitted by the 5th of August 2025. To apply, candidates need to submit the following:
- A cover letter stating their interest in the bursary and relevant experience.
- A detailed CV, including:
- Certified copies of all academic certificates.
- Proof of registration or acceptance by a South African university for the doctoral program.
- At least three contactable referees.
Please ensure that the application is submitted in a complete and timely manner to avoid any delays in processing.
Contact Information
For any inquiries, candidates can reach out to Ms. Ronewa Makungo or Ms. Regina Makhura at the ARC. You can contact them at Tel: 012 808 8000.
The ARC PDP Doctoral Bursary in Agricultural Studies is a remarkable opportunity for students who are passionate about contributing to the future of agriculture in South Africa. This bursary not only provides financial support but also offers valuable mentorship, career development opportunities, and hands-on experience through real-world research projects. If you meet the eligibility criteria and have the drive to make a difference in the agricultural sector, don’t miss out on this opportunity.