The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) invites applications for 18 exciting internship opportunities at the ARC: Animal Production (ARC-AP) – Range & Forage Sciences division. These internships are 1-year, fixed-term contracts based at multiple sites including the University of the Western Cape (UWC), Pretoria, and the Eastern Cape.
If you’ve studied Agriculture, Animal Sciences, or Biodiversity, and are looking for hands-on research experience that can launch your career, this is your chance. Applications close on 7 August 2025, and you can only apply for one province, so choose wisely!
Get Field-Ready With the ARC Internship Program
This internship is designed for graduates who want to build real-world experience in:
- Agricultural and environmental research
- Rangeland and forage science
- Wildlife and biodiversity conservation
- Animal science and ecosystem management
You’ll work alongside top researchers and field experts, contribute to national projects, and sharpen your skills in data collection, fieldwork, project coordination, and scientific reporting.
Here’s What You’ll Be Doing:
As an ARC intern, you won’t be making coffee — you’ll be part of the action. Your tasks may include:
- Assisting in the preparation of tools, samples, and equipment for fieldwork
- Collecting, labelling, and managing data in field conditions
- Supporting the storage and organization of research data
- Helping ensure equipment is used properly and safely
- Assisting in the writing of monthly and quarterly project reports
- Participating in the coordination of research activities across teams
- Following health and safety rules and standard operating procedures
- Supporting project and fieldwork planning
- Giving both written and verbal feedback on your tasks
- Contributing to various research initiatives led by the Range and Forage Sciences team
This is your chance to be part of real conservation and agricultural work that directly impacts South Africa’s food security and biodiversity.
Minimum Requirements to Apply:
To qualify, you need:
- A National Diploma, BSc, Honours, or MSc in:
- Agricultural Management
- Animal Sciences
- Plant Sciences
- Wildlife Management
- Biodiversity Conservation
A postgraduate qualification is a bonus but not a must.
Extra Skills That’ll Help You Stand Out:
- Experience in fieldwork (especially in rangelands, plant/animal sciences)
- Good computer literacy (especially Microsoft Office)
- Strong communication skills – both written and spoken
- Great teamwork and people skills
- Multitasking under pressure
- Good judgment and decision-making ability
- Comfortable working in large teams
- A Code 8 or 10 driver’s license is a big plus!
Where Will You Be Placed?
Interns will be placed at one of the following ARC:AP research stations:
- University of the Western Cape (Western Cape)
- Pretoria (Gauteng)
- Eastern Cape
📍 Important Note: You can only choose ONE province where you’d like to be placed — no multiple applications allowed.
What You’ll Gain:
- A competitive stipend
- Real research experience for your CV
- Skills in data management, fieldwork, and scientific collaboration
- Mentorship from industry experts
- Exposure to large-scale environmental and agricultural projects
- A chance to kickstart your career in research, farming systems, or conservation
Employment Equity and Compliance
The ARC is committed to Employment Equity and encourages applications from designated groups. These roles are also subject to security clearance, and permanent employment is not guaranteed after the internship — but the experience will help you land your next job or even a research position.
How to Apply
To be considered, your application must include:
- A cover letter
- Your detailed CV with at least 3 contactable references
- Certified copies of qualifications and your ID
- A copy of your driver’s license (if applicable)
- If you have foreign qualifications, attach a SAQA evaluation report
📌 All documents must be attached to the official ARC application form.
❗ Incomplete or incorrect applications will not be considered.
Contact for Questions:
Dr FL Muller
📞 (012) 808 8234
Don’t Miss Out
With 18 internship positions available, this is one of the largest graduate internship offerings currently in the agricultural and environmental sector. Whether you see yourself working with plants, animals, or ecosystems — this internship will get you hands-on experience and open doors.
Deadline to apply: 07 August 2025
Only one province application per candidate allowed.