The Agricultural Research Council (ARC), through its Plant Health and Protection (ARC-PHP) division, is inviting applications for a Bacteriology Internship Programme for 2026. This opportunity is based at Roodeplaat, Pretoria, and is ideal for graduates looking to build careers in plant pathology, microbiology, biotechnology, and agricultural research.
The internship offers a rare combination of laboratory-based diagnostics, molecular techniques, and field research, supporting national plant health and biosecurity initiatives.
Closing date: 23 January 2026
Location: Roodeplaat, Pretoria (Gauteng)
Internship Overview
This internship provides practical exposure to plant bacteriology research and diagnostic services, enabling interns to develop technical skills used in real-world agricultural and scientific environments.
Key Internship Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | Bacteriology Internship |
| Organisation | Agricultural Research Council (ARC) |
| Division | ARC – Plant Health and Protection (ARC-PHP) |
| Department | PPRI |
| Reference Number | PHP0644 |
| Job Type | Contract |
| Positions Available | 1 |
| Salary | Market-related |
| Industry | Research |
| Closing Date | 23 January 2026 |
What You Will Be Doing
The successful intern will receive hands-on training and exposure in:
- Preparation of buffers and bacterial growth media
- Isolation, purification, and preservation of bacterial cultures
- DNA extraction and PCR techniques for plant pathogenic bacteria
- Maintaining and expanding the national bacterial culture collection
- Data capturing and research documentation
- Supporting plant disease diagnostic services
- Soil preparation and glasshouse trials
- Sample collection across different provinces
- Adhering to laboratory quality standards
- Compliance with SHE and OHS regulations
This role blends laboratory work, applied research, and field activities, providing well-rounded research experience.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- National Diploma or BSc degree in:
- Microbiology
- Biotechnology
- Plant Pathology
- Or a closely related field
- Postgraduate Diploma or Honours degree (advantageous)
- At least one year of experience in a plant bacteriology laboratory (advantageous)
- Experience in bacterial culture preservation (advantageous)
- Willingness to assist with soil preparation and glasshouse trials
- Willingness to participate in fieldwork and travel
Employment Equity
The ARC is an equal opportunity employer committed to the Employment Equity Act.
- Preference will be given to designated groups in line with the ARC Employment Equity Plan
- Persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply
How to Apply for the ARC Bacteriology Internship 2026
Required Application Documents
Applications must include all of the following:
- Covering letter
- Detailed CV with at least three (3) recent contactable referees
- Certified copies of qualifications and supporting documents
- Certified copy of a driver’s licence
- SAQA evaluation report (for foreign qualifications)
⚠️ Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Application Submission
Apply online via the ARC recruitment platform using the official internship reference:
🔗 ARC Bacteriology Internship Programme 2026 – Reference: PHP0644
Enquiries (For Clarification Only)
📞 Contact Person: Dr Valery Moloto
☎️ Telephone: 012 808 8163
⚠️ Please note: Enquiries are for information only. Applications must be submitted through the official process.
Important Notes
- Appointment is subject to a positive security clearance
- If you do not receive feedback within four (4) weeks after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful
- The ARC reserves the right not to make an appointment
Why This Internship Is Valuable
From a career development perspective, this internship offers:
- Exposure to national plant health and biosecurity programmes
- Practical training in molecular diagnostics and bacteriology
- Field and laboratory research experience
- Strong preparation for postgraduate studies or research careers
- Experience within a respected national research institution
This programme is especially valuable for graduates aiming to work in agricultural research, diagnostics, biotechnology, and plant disease management.
Final Reminder
If you are passionate about plant health, bacteriology, and agricultural research, the ARC Bacteriology Internship 2026 offers practical experience that can shape your scientific career.
📌 Apply before 23 January 2026 to avoid missing this opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this internship suitable for recent graduates?
Yes. It is ideal for graduates with a diploma or degree in microbiology, biotechnology, or plant pathology.
Is postgraduate study required?
No, but a postgraduate diploma or honours degree is an advantage.
Will I need to travel?
Yes. The role includes fieldwork and sample collection in different provinces.
How many positions are available?
Only one (1) internship position is available.
Is this a permanent job?
No. This is a contract internship intended for skills development.
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