Senior Crop Protection Scientist - Integrated Pest Management

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical benefits

Retirement benefits

Training & conferences

Well-equipped facilities

Job summary

A prominent agricultural research institute in Polokwane seeks a Senior Crop Protection Scientist to lead the IPM program, coordinating field trials and guiding stakeholders. The role emphasizes sustainable pest, disease, and weed management to improve regional yields in Limpopo.

The ideal candidate will have a PhD with IPM focus and at least 7 years of crop protection research experience, plus leadership abilities and strong data skills to drive impact across laboratories and farms.

Qualifications

• PhD in Entomology, Plant Pathology or Weed Science with IPM emphasis.
• Minimum 7 years of crop protection research experience, IPM program work.
• Deep knowledge of pest biology, ecology, and SA agriculture.
• Experience designing/leading field trials and analyzing datasets.
• Strong communication, leadership, and project management skills.
• Willingness to travel and valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Lead IPM research for major field crops in Limpopo.
• Design and execute field experiments for pest, disease, weed control.
• Monitor pest populations and develop forecasting models.
• Develop IPM best-practice guidelines for farmers and extension.
• Conduct risk assessments for new control agents and technologies.
• Collaborate with scientists, researchers and government agencies.
• Manage budgets, supervise field technicians, mentor staff.
• Analyze data and prepare reports, publications and presentations.
• Stay updated on regulatory changes in crop protection.

Skills

IPM program development

Leadership

Field trials design

Data analysis

Communication

Education

PhD in Entomology, Plant Pathology, or Weed Science

Tools

Statistical software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural research institute located in **Polokwane, Limpopo**, is seeking a Senior Crop Protection Scientist to lead their Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program. This vital role focuses on developing and implementing sustainable strategies to manage pests, diseases, and weeds affecting key crops in the region, minimizing environmental impact and maximizing crop yields. The Senior Scientist will conduct research, field trials, and provide expert technical guidance to farmers and stakeholders. This position offers a significant opportunity to contribute to food security and sustainable agricultural practices in **Limpopo** and beyond, working at the forefront of crop science research. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of pest ecology and advanced IPM techniques.

The position requires regular on-site work in **Polokwane** to manage field trials and laboratory activities, ensuring close involvement in all research aspects.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research and development initiatives in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for major field crops in **Limpopo**.
• Design and execute field experiments to evaluate the efficacy of various pest, disease, and weed control strategies, including biological, cultural, and chemical methods.
• Monitor pest and disease populations and develop forecasting models for timely interventions.
• Develop and disseminate best practice guidelines for IPM to farmers, extension agents, and industry professionals.
• Conduct risk assessments for new pest control agents and technologies.
• Collaborate with other scientists, researchers, and government agencies on crop protection projects.
• Manage research budgets, supervise field technicians, and mentor junior researchers.
• Analyze experimental data and prepare technical reports, scientific publications, and presentations.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements and regulatory changes in crop protection.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Entomology, Plant Pathology, Weed Science, or a closely related field with a strong emphasis on IPM.
• A minimum of 7 years of research experience in crop protection, with a proven track record in IPM program development and implementation.
• In-depth knowledge of pest and disease biology, ecology, and management strategies relevant to **South African** agriculture.
• Experience in designing and conducting field trials and analyzing complex datasets.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and project management skills.
• Ability to work independently and lead a research team in a laboratory and field setting.
• Familiarity with agricultural practices and challenges in the **Polokwane** region is advantageous.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software and relevant research tools.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to travel to field sites.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, and opportunities for professional growth through training and conference participation.
• Employees have access to well-equipped research facilities and collaborate with a team of dedicated agricultural scientists.