IPM Scientist: Sustainable Crop Protection (Field & Lab)

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 950,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement fund

Professional development

Modern facilities

Access to equipment

Job summary

Placements24 in Polokwane, Limpopo, is seeking a Crop Protection Scientist to advance research on pests, diseases, and weeds, integrating laboratory work with field trials.

You will develop IPM strategies, analyze data, and collaborate with farmers and extension services to improve regional crop health. This role offers a multidisciplinary team and access to modern facilities in a research-focused organization.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Entomology, Plant Pathology, Weed Science, or a related field within Crop Protection.
• Minimum of 4 years of research experience in crop protection.
• Strong knowledge of agricultural pests, plant diseases, and weed management.
• Experience in experimental design, data collection, and statistical analysis.
• Familiarity with pesticide application techniques and safety protocols.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to work independently and in a team.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on the identification, biology, and control of key agricultural pests, diseases, and weeds.
• Design and manage field and laboratory experiments to evaluate the efficacy of crop protection agents and strategies.
• Develop and promote integrated pest management (IPM) programs tailored to local conditions.
• Collect and analyze data on pest incidence, disease severity, and weed infestation.
• Stay current with regulatory requirements and advancements in crop protection technology.
• Collaborate with farmers, extension services, and industry partners to implement effective control measures.
• Prepare scientific reports, publications, and presentations on research findings.
• Ensure the safe handling and application of pesticides and other control agents.
• Contribute to the training and education of stakeholders on crop protection best practices.

Skills

Research skills

Data analysis

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in Entomology/Plant Pathology/Weed Science or related Crop Protection

Job description

Placements24 in Polokwane, Limpopo, is seeking a Crop Protection Scientist to advance research on pests, diseases, and weeds, integrating laboratory work with field trials.

You will develop IPM strategies, analyze data, and collaborate with farmers and extension services to improve regional crop health. This role offers a multidisciplinary team and access to modern facilities in a research-focused organization.