The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) has announced two Poultry Nutrition Internship opportunities for 2026, based at its Animal Production (ARC-AP) campus in Irene, Pretoria. These contract positions offer graduates the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in applied agricultural and animal production research.
The internships focus on innovative research into alternative protein sources, particularly yellow mealworm biology and production systems, supporting sustainable livestock and poultry nutrition solutions.
About the Agricultural Research Council (ARC)
The ARC is South Africa’s premier public agricultural research institution, playing a vital role in advancing scientific knowledge, food security, and sustainable agricultural practices. Through its Animal Production division, the ARC conducts applied research that directly supports the livestock and poultry industries.
Participation in an ARC internship provides exposure to nationally significant research projects and professional research environments.
Internship Overview
The Poultry Nutrition Internship is hosted within the Animal Production (ARC-AP) unit and is designed for graduates interested in entomology, animal science, and agricultural innovation.
Interns will contribute to experimental research projects while developing practical research, data management, and laboratory skills.
Number of Positions: 2
Job Reference: AP100
Job Type: Contract Internship
Location: Irene, Pretoria
Key Responsibilities
Interns will be involved in a range of research and operational activities, including:
- Conducting applied research on yellow mealworm biology and production systems
- Developing and documenting breeding and rearing protocols
- Evaluating different substrates to improve sustainability and cost-efficiency
- Collecting, capturing, and processing experimental research data
- Maintaining hygiene, biosecurity, and operational standards within the insectary
- Supporting ongoing research projects through collaboration and reporting
This role provides exposure to both experimental design and day-to-day research operations.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants should meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree, BTech, or Advanced Diploma in:
- Entomology
- Animal Science
- Agriculture or a related field
- Ability to work independently and within a multidisciplinary research team
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Willingness to engage with innovative research concepts and methods
- Adaptability in a research-driven environment
Foreign qualifications must be accompanied by a SAQA evaluation report.
Skills and Attributes for Success
The ARC is seeking candidates who demonstrate:
- Research curiosity and attention to detail
- Strong organisational and data management skills
- Professional communication and reporting ability
- Commitment to scientific integrity and operational standards
- Motivation to contribute to sustainable agricultural research
Remuneration and Employment Conditions
- A competitive remuneration package will be offered, aligned with the scope and responsibilities of the internship
- Appointment is subject to positive security clearance
- Preference will be given to designated groups in line with the ARC Employment Equity Plan
- The ARC is an equal opportunity employer committed to transformation and fair employment practices
Application Requirements
Applications must include the following documentation:
- Covering letter
- Detailed CV with at least three recent, contactable referees
- Certified copies of academic certificates
- Certified copy of driver’s licence
- Supporting documents relevant to the application
Complete the Official Application Form
Applications must be submitted using the official ARC application form.
Ensure that all sections of the form are completed accurately and honestly.
Incomplete or incorrectly completed forms may result in disqualification.
Important Dates and Enquiries
Closing Date: 30 January 2026
Enquiries:
Dr L. Selaledi
Tel: (012) 672 9324
Applicants who do not receive feedback within four weeks of the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful.
Career Value of the ARC Internship
Completing an internship with the Agricultural Research Council provides graduates with:
- Practical research experience in a professional scientific environment
- Exposure to sustainable protein and animal nutrition innovation
- Strengthened research and analytical skills
- Improved prospects for postgraduate study or research-related careers
The skills gained are transferable across research institutions, agriculture, and animal production industries.
Related Career Opportunities You Should Explore
- BANKSETA Micro-Finance Online Training 2026 – Fully Funded Core Skills Programme
- SAIFA / AgriSETA Graduate Placement Programme 2026 – Paid Agriculture Placements
- NAMC Graduate Placement Programme 2026: Your Path to Professional Growth
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
How many ARC Poultry Nutrition Internship positions are available?
There are two internship positions available for the 2026 intake.
Where is the internship based?
The internship is based at ARC Animal Production in Irene, Pretoria.
What qualification is required?
A Bachelor’s degree, BTech, or Advanced Diploma in Entomology, Animal Science, Agriculture, or a related field.
Is the internship permanent?
No. This is a contract internship position.
When does the internship close?
Applications close on 30 January 2026.
