Assistant Research Officer - Entomology

Ntice Sourcing Solutions; Durban; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural research institute is seeking a motivated Assistant Research Officer (Entomology) based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. The role involves conducting insecticide bioassays, performing entomological procedures, and training junior staff. Candidates should possess a BSc (Hons) or MSc in Entomology, with at least two years of relevant laboratory-based research experience. The position supports vital research in improving the sugarcane industry’s sustainability.

Qualifications

• Minimum two years' experience in entomology, microbiology, molecular biology, and laboratory-based research.
• Demonstrated ability to work across disciplines and in team-based research environments.

Responsibilities

• Conduct insecticide bioassays on priority sugarcane pests.
• Perform entomological procedures such as pest rearing and dissections.
• Source insect diets and conduct microbiological techniques.
• Communicate research findings through reports and publications.
• Train interns and junior staff in laboratory procedures.

Skills

Entomology knowledge

Laboratory skills

Analytical skills

Organizational skills

Problem-solving skills

Computer literacy

Education

BSc (Hons) or MSc with Entomology as a major subject

Job description

Job Location:

Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Application Deadline:

February 09, 2026

Job Description

• South African Sugarcane Research Institute (SASRI) a division of the South African Sugar Association (SASA) has a permanent opportunity seeking a motivated and technically skilled Assistant Research Officer (Entomology) to join our multidisciplinary Crop Biology Resource Unit (CBRC) based in Mount Edgecombe.
• The South African Sugarcane Research Institute (SASRI) is a world-class agricultural research institute within the South African Sugar Association (SASA). This role supports research aimed at improving the biosecurity and long-term sustainability of the South African sugarcane industry. This position will report to the Senior Entomologist.

Key Responsibilities

Research

• Conduct insecticide bioassays on priority sugarcane pests including Eldana, yellow sugarcane aphid, longhorn beetle, and other economically important pests
• Perform entomological procedures such as pest rearing, dissections, colony maintenance, monitoring, microscopy, and specimen preservation
• Source insect diets, plant material, and host tissue for bioassays
• Conduct microbiological and molecular biology techniques
• Record, analyse, and interpret research data using appropriate electronic tools and statistical methods
• Contribute to proposal development and support research projects identified through the SASRI Programme of Work

Knowledge Exchange

• Communicate research findings through internal reports, peer-reviewed publications, conference papers, and non-peer-reviewed outputs (technical notes, extension articles, newsletters, and industry summaries)
• Present research at internal seminars, conferences, workshops, and industry forums

Training and Supervision

• Train interns, students, and junior staff in laboratory, field, and entomological procedures
• Mentor technical staff and research interns on relevant methodological aspects

Administration

• Forecast material requirements and assist with preliminary project budgets
• Procure consumables using the SASA online system and maintain records
• Monitor expenditure on relevant cost codes and provide updates on request
• Log maintenance requests and liaise with technical support services

Safety, Health & Environment

• Complete SHE, first aid and fire extinguisher checklists
• Ensure correct PPE usage and adherence to SHE procedures
• Maintain chemical inventories and MSDS files within the entomology laboratories

Minimum Requirements

Education and Experience

• BSc (Hons) or MSc with Entomology as a major subject.
• Minimum two years' experience in entomology, microbiology, molecular biology, and laboratory-based research
• Demonstrated ability to work across disciplines and within team-based research environments
• Strong organisational, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Computer literacy is essential
• Code EB driver's license