Research Assistant (Field Entomologist)

Sarawak Infectious Disease Centre (SIDC); Kuching; On-site; MYR 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institute in infectious diseases located in Sarawak is seeking an enthusiastic candidate to conduct entomological sampling, manage data, and collaborate with local health leaders. Applicants should possess a Diploma or BSc in relevant fields and speak Bahasa Malaysia fluently. The role offers competitive salary and various employee benefits.

Benefits

Medical insurance for employees and family

Monthly mobile phone allowance

Minimum 20 days annual leave

Work permit support

Qualifications

• Ability to work nights and weekends when required.
• Proven ability to work with diverse collaborators.
• Comfortable carrying equipment to remote sites.

Responsibilities

• Conduct entomological sampling and maintain equipment.
• Identify mosquito species and prepare samples.
• Record and upload field lab data.

Skills

Fieldwork stamina in rural conditions

Strong interpersonal skills

Efficient task prioritization

Proficient in spreadsheets

Fluent in Bahasa Malaysia

Education

Diploma or BSc in Biology, Entomology, Environmental or Health Sciences

Tools

Basic GIS/maps

Job description

Number of Openings: 1

Closing Date: 5 December 2025

Responsibilities

• Plan and conduct entomological sampling, maintain traps and equipment, and ensure compliance with ethics, permits, and SOPs during fieldwork.
• Identify mosquito species, perform dissections, and prepare samples according to standard procedures.
• Record, clean, and upload field and lab data; maintain accurate logs, labels, and reports.
• Coordinate travel, supplies, site access, and procurement; manage documentation and actively participate in team meetings.
• Liaise with local leaders and health offices, assist with field communications.
• Support other operations within the centre as and when required.

Essential Skills

• Demonstrated fieldwork stamina in rural and remote conditions; willing to work nights and weekends when entomology requires it.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; proven ability to effectively with diverse (local and international) collaborators.
• Comfortable carrying equipment and trekking to remote sites.
• Organised, efficient, and dependable, capable of prioritising tasks and meeting deadlines without supervision.
• Proficient in spreadsheets and data entry; precise with labelling and documentation.
• Fluent in Bahasa Malaysia with a working knowledge of English. Familiarity with local languages, such as Bidayuh or Iban, is an advantage.

Qualification & Work Experience

Diploma or BSc in Biology, Entomology, Environmental, or Health Sciences, or equivalent practical experience in the field.

The ideal candidate should have experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Prior experience in public health/ecology research, insect surveys, and conducting field data collection.
• Experience in mosquito identification/dissection.
• Basic GIS/maps.

Why work with us?

The Sarawak Infectious Disease Centre Sdn. Bhd. (SIDC) will be home to the state’s premier life science laboratories, including Sarawak’s first Biosafety Level-3 (BSL-3) facility, enabling research on highly pathogenic organisms, strengthening outbreak preparedness, and connecting Sarawak to global infectious disease networks. The centre will feature advanced genomics, metabolomics, molecular biology, and computational platforms to drive discovery, diagnostics, and translational research.

At SIDC, we believe meaningful work and the joy of discovery go hand in hand. Join our curious, collaborative, and mission-driven team, united to improve health equity in Sarawak and advance infectious disease research. We value open communication, rigor, and cross-disciplinary learning, fostering a workplace where everyone can contribute, grow, and make an impact.

Benefits

• Medical insurance for employees and immediate family members
• Monthly mobile phone allowance
• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Minimum of 20 days annual leave per year
• Work permit support for non-Sarawakian residents