Senior Agricultural Entomologist

Placements24; Kimberley; Hybrid; CAD 75,000 - 126,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement fund

Research grants

Professional development andconference

Job summary

Not disclosed for confidentiality, our client in Kimberley, South Africa, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Agricultural Entomologist to lead research on pests affecting crops and to develop advanced IPM solutions.

The role blends laboratory work, field trials, and stakeholder training, requiring a PhD or Master's in entomology and at least seven years of progressive research experience, with strong communication and collaboration skills.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master's in Entomology, Agricultural Science, or a related field with a specialization in entomology.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in agricultural entomology research.
• Proven expertise in insect identification, ecology, and pest management techniques.
• Strong understanding of IPM principles and practices.
• Experience with field trial design and data analysis.
• Excellent research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with ability to present complex information effectively.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on the identification, biology, and ecology of agricultural insect pests.
• Develop and implement IPM strategies for various crops.
• Evaluate the efficacy of different insecticides and biological control agents.
• Design and manage field trials to test pest control methods and assess crop damage.
• Analyze insect population dynamics and predict potential outbreaks.
• Provide technical guidance and training on pest identification and management to farmers and extension officers.
• Collaborate with researchers, government agencies, and industry partners on pest management initiatives.
• Author scientific reports, publications, and extension materials.
• Stay current with advancements in entomology and pest management technologies.

Skills

Insect identification

Ecology

Pest management

IPM principles

Education

PhD in Entomology

Master's in Entomology or related

Tools

Statistical software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading agricultural research organization based in Kimberley, Northern Cape , is seeking a highly experienced Senior Agricultural Entomologist. This vital role focuses on studying, identifying, and managing insect pests that affect agricultural crops in the region and beyond. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in entomology, integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, and a deep understanding of insect ecology and behavior. You will lead research projects, develop innovative pest control solutions, and provide expert advice to farmers and agricultural stakeholders. This position requires a blend of laboratory research, field work, and strong communication skills to disseminate findings and promote effective pest management practices. The role is based in Kimberley , a strategic location for agricultural research in the Northern Cape, offering opportunities to address unique pest challenges.

Key Responsibilities

Conduct research on the identification, biology, and ecology of agricultural insect pests. Develop and implement integrated pest management (IPM) strategies for various crops. Evaluate the efficacy of different insecticides and biological control agents. Design and manage field trials to test pest control methods and assess crop damage. Analyze insect population dynamics and predict potential outbreaks. Provide technical guidance and training on pest identification and management to farmers and extension officers. Collaborate with researchers, government agencies, and industry partners on pest management initiatives. Author scientific reports, publications, and extension materials. Stay current with advancements in entomology and pest management technologies.

Requirements

Ph.D. or Master's degree in Entomology, Agricultural Science, or a related field with a specialization in entomology. Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in agricultural entomology research and application. Proven expertise in insect identification, ecology, and pest management techniques. Strong understanding of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles and practices. Experience with field trial design and data analysis. Excellent research, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information effectively. Proficiency in relevant scientific software and databases. A passion for contributing to sustainable agriculture through effective pest management.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, commensurate with experience and qualifications. This includes health insurance, a retirement fund, research grants, and opportunities for professional development and conference attendance. Relocation assistance may be provided. This is a senior role based in Kimberley , Northern Cape, offering a stimulating research environment and the opportunity to significantly impact agricultural productivity and sustainability.