Grain SA invites unemployed science graduates to apply for its 2026 Science Communication & Advocacy Internship, offering hands-on exposure to agriculture, policy, and evidence-based communication.
Grain SA Group has announced the opening of applications for its Science Communication & Advocacy Internship Programme for 2026/2027, inviting unemployed graduates with a science background to apply. This 12-month fixed-term graduate internship, based in South Africa, offers a unique opportunity for aspiring science communicators to work at the intersection of agriculture, research, policy, and public engagement.
With a competitive stipend offered on a cost-to-company basis, the programme is ideal for graduates who are passionate about agriculture and motivated to translate complex scientific information into clear, credible, and engaging content that supports evidence-based advocacy within the grain sector.
About Grain SA
The Grain SA Group of Entities represents grain producers across South Africa and plays a critical role in advancing food security, sustainability, and economic growth. Its mission is to build and sustain a credible, inclusive, and voluntary organisation that drives strategic action for the benefit of grain producers and the broader food system.
Through strong relationships, trusted engagement, and a commitment to sound science, Grain SA works to ensure that farmer realities, research evidence, and policy discussions are aligned. The organisation fosters an enabling environment where skilled and passionate professionals can grow while contributing meaningfully to the agricultural sector.
Purpose of the Internship
The Science Communication & Advocacy Internship is designed for science graduates who want to apply their technical knowledge beyond the laboratory or lecture hall. The role focuses on telling the real story of grain farmers, translating research and on-farm realities into accessible content that informs farmers, policymakers, the media, and the public.
Science communicators play a vital role in addressing misinformation, supporting informed decision-making, and strengthening trust between science, society, and policy. This internship places the successful candidate at the heart of these conversations, with exposure to climate resilience, biotechnology, soil health, markets, plant protection, and food security.
What the Intern Will Do
The intern will work closely with Grain SA’s communication, research, farmer development, and policy teams, gaining broad exposure across the grain value chain.
1. Science-Based Communication and Storytelling
The intern will be responsible for translating complex scientific and technical information into clear and engaging content. This includes drafting articles, explainers, newsletters, fact sheets, and website content grounded in real farm data and credible research.
The role also involves interviewing farmers, researchers, and subject-matter experts to capture insights and turn them into compelling stories that reflect on-the-ground realities in the grain sector.
2. Evidence-Based Advocacy Support
Working alongside policy and research teams, the intern will help convert research reports, statistics, and field trial results into practical advocacy tools such as policy briefs, infographics, slide decks, and talking points.
This includes supporting myth-busting efforts around often misunderstood issues such as pesticide use, fertilisers, biotechnology, water use, and climate impacts, and assisting with submissions and background documents for engagements with government, value-chain partners, and the media.
3. Digital and Multimedia Content
The intern will contribute to Grain SA’s digital platforms by supporting content planning and scheduling across social media channels including X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube, and short-form video platforms.
They will also assist with basic video content, animations, or data visualisations, help update websites hosted on WordPress, and support basic analytics and reporting on content performance and audience engagement.
4. Events, Field Engagement, and Campaigns
A key feature of the internship is exposure to major industry events such as NAMPO, NAMPO Cape, NAMPO ALFA, Grain SA Congress, and various farmer days.
The intern will assist with communication materials, media centres, briefing packs, and on-the-ground content creation, including photography, interviews, short videos, and live social media updates. These activities highlight the contribution of grain farmers to food security, rural employment, and the broader economy.
5. Media and Stakeholder Support
The role also includes supporting media monitoring, maintaining stakeholder contact lists, coordinating interviews and media visits, and ensuring consistent messaging and branding across all science-related communications.
Learning and Development Opportunities
Throughout the 12-month internship, the successful candidate will gain:
- Practical science communication skills, including writing, interviewing, and visual storytelling
- Insight into how science, economics, and policy intersect in the grain sector
- Exposure to national-level agricultural advocacy and regulatory engagement
- First-hand experience of farmer realities through field visits and events
- Mentorship from experienced communicators, researchers, economists, and farmer leaders
This structured exposure makes the programme a strong foundation for careers in science communication, agricultural policy, sustainability, or development.
Qualifications and Skills Required
Essential Requirements
Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree (BSc or equivalent) in a relevant field such as:
- Agricultural Sciences (Agronomy, Plant Production, Soil Science, Agricultural Economics)
- Environmental Science or Ecology
- Food Science
- Engineering
- Biological or Life Sciences
Candidates should demonstrate a clear aptitude for writing and communication through academic work, blogs, student publications, or social media content. Strong computer literacy and excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and Afrikaans are essential. Additional South African languages are an advantage.
Advantageous Experience
While not required, preference may be given to candidates with experience in student media, science communication, debate, social media management, WordPress, or prior exposure to farming or the grain industry.
Key Personal Attributes
Grain SA is looking for candidates who are curious, organised, reliable, and enthusiastic about agriculture and innovation. The ideal intern will be able to simplify complex information accurately, manage multiple deadlines, work collaboratively across disciplines, and travel occasionally for events. A valid driver’s licence and own transport are a strong advantage.
Remuneration and Equity
The internship offers a competitive stipend calculated on a cost-to-company basis. Appointments will be made in line with Grain SA’s Employment Equity Policy.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit their application by 10 January 2026 to:
Lizzy Mosehla
HR & Corporate Services Administrator
📧 [email protected]
For science graduates passionate about agriculture, communication, and evidence-based advocacy, the Grain SA Science Communication & Advocacy Internship offers a rare and valuable opportunity to contribute to one of South Africa’s most important sectors while building a meaningful and impactful career.
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