Insect Biodiversity Research in South Africa

Environmental Career Center; Limpopo; On-site; ZAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A wildlife conservation organization in South Africa seeks enthusiastic biology or entomology interns for an opportunity to gain hands-on experience at a 27,000-hectare wildlife reserve. Interns will assist in creating the reserve's first insect reference collection and contribute to critical biodiversity research. The program offers unique skills in field sampling, taxonomy, and collection management within a rich ecological environment.

Benefits

On-site accommodation

Transport included

Field experience in biodiversity

Qualifications

• Must be eager to gain hands-on field experience.
• Ability to work in a team and follow guidance.
• Interest in biodiversity and conservation.

Responsibilities

• Assist in field sampling and insect identification.
• Contribute to maintaining the insect archive.
• Participate actively in biodiversity studies.

Skills

Field Sampling Skills

Taxonomy & Identification

Collection Management

Research Experience

Education

Currently studying Biology or Entomology

Job description

Overview

Are you a biology or entomology student eager to gain hands-on field experience? Bushveld Biodiversity Research Centre (BBRC) in South Africa invites applications for two internship positions to support our insect biodiversity project on a 27,000-hectare wildlife reserve.

This is a rare opportunity to help create the reserve’s first insect reference collection, contributing to long-term ecological research and conservation.

What You’ll Gain

• Field Sampling Skills: Learn methods such as pitfall trapping, sweep netting, and microhabitat surveys.
• Taxonomy & Identification: Work with collected specimens to refine your insect ID skills.
• Collection Management: Contribute to curating and maintaining a permanent insect archive for the reserve.
• Research Experience: Participate in baseline biodiversity studies in an area where no formal insect surveys have been conducted before.

Why It Matters

Our winter surveys already documented over 100 insect specimens across diverse groups. With your involvement, especially during the summer months when insects are most active, the collection has the potential to expand into hundreds or even thousands of species—providing a critical resource for conservation and future ecological studies.

Internship Details

Duration: Flexible | We recommend a 2–4 month stay for the most rewarding experience.

Location: A 27,000-hectare reserve, home to incredible biodiversity and wildlife, including 17 antelope species and two of the Big Five.

Conservation Fee Includes

• Support for the ongoing protection of the land and its wildlife.
• On-site accommodation
• Transport (Polokwane airport pick-up/drop-off, biweekly town trips for supplies, and daily drives on the reserve)

We eagerly anticipate welcoming motivated and passionate interns to our team!