Senior Research Scientist - Sustainable Pest Control Solutions

Placements24; Kimberley; Hybrid; CAD 101,000 - 152,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and benefits

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Scientist to lead development of sustainable pest control solutions in Kimberley. The role focuses on identifying, evaluating, and implementing eco-friendly methods to reduce chemical inputs in agriculture.

The candidate will conduct cutting-edge research on biological control, botanical insecticides, and innovative trapping, collaborating with local and international partners and mentoring junior researchers.

Qualifications

• PhD in Entomology, Plant Pathology, Ecology, or related biological science with pest management specialization.
• Minimum 7 years post‑doc research in sustainable pest control methods.
• Expertise in biological control, natural products, or eco-friendly pest management.

Responsibilities

• Lead projects on sustainable pest control strategies.
• Evaluate biological control agents against pests.
• Assess botanical extracts and natural compounds for pest management.
• Design and conduct lab and field trials to test new methods.
• Collaborate with national and international institutions and industry partners.
• Mentor junior researchers and staff.
• Contribute to grant writing and funding pursuits.
• Keep abreast of scientific advances and regulatory trends.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Data analysis

Scientific writing

Team collaboration

Independent work

Education

PhD in Entomology / Plant Pathology

Tools

R

Python

GIS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an agricultural research and innovation hub located in Kimberley, Northern Cape, is seeking a Senior Research Scientist to spearhead the development of sustainable pest control solutions. This key position will focus on identifying, evaluating, and implementing environmentally friendly methods for managing agricultural pests, reducing reliance on synthetic pesticides. The scientist will conduct cutting-edge research, including exploring biological control agents, botanical insecticides, and innovative trapping mechanisms, contributing significantly to sustainable farming practices in South Africa. This role offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible impact on reducing chemical inputs in agriculture and promoting ecological balance within farming systems. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in entomology or plant pathology with a focus on green solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research projects focused on developing and validating novel, sustainable pest control strategies.
• Investigate the efficacy of biological control agents (e.g., beneficial insects, microbes) against key agricultural pests.
• Explore and assess the potential of botanical extracts and natural compounds for pest management.
• Design and conduct laboratory and field trials to evaluate the effectiveness, safety, and economic viability of new control methods.
• Analyze research data, interpret results, and prepare comprehensive scientific reports and publications.
• Collaborate with national and international research institutions, industry partners, and farming communities.
• Supervise and mentor junior researchers and technical staff.
• Contribute to grant writing and the pursuit of external research funding.
• Stay updated on the latest scientific advancements and regulatory trends in sustainable pest control.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Entomology, Plant Pathology, Ecology, or a related biological science with a specialization in pest management.
• A minimum of 7 years of post-doctoral research experience in developing and testing sustainable pest control methods.
• Demonstrated expertise in biological control, natural product chemistry, or related eco-friendly pest management techniques.
• Proven experience in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific writing.
• Strong leadership, project management, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and foster collaboration within a research team.
• Experience with field research in agricultural settings, preferably in South Africa.
• Proficiency in relevant scientific software and laboratory techniques.
• Willingness to travel for fieldwork and collaborations as needed.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, and a robust retirement plan.
• This role provides excellent opportunities for professional growth, including conference attendance and participation in international research collaborations.
• Employees work in a stimulating research environment with access to modern facilities and contribute to groundbreaking sustainable agriculture initiatives.
• The hybrid work model allows for flexibility, balancing laboratory research and data analysis with necessary fieldwork in and around Kimberley, promoting a healthy work-life integration in the Northern Cape.