Senior Entomologist

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Hybrid work model

Access to modern research facilities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Entomologist to advance IPM strategies and study insect biology in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, ZA. You will lead projects, run field trials, and analyze results to guide crop protection strategies.

The role requires a PhD and 5+ years in agricultural entomology, with strong communication skills and a drive for sustainable agriculture. The position offers a hybrid work setup and opportunities for growth.

Qualifications

• PhD in Entomology, Agronomy or related biological science.
• Minimum 5 years post-doctoral or relevant industry experience in agricultural entomology.
• Strong knowledge of insect biology, ecology, and pest management principles.
• Experience designing and conducting field trials and laboratory experiments.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software (R, SAS, SPSS).
• GIS/remote sensing experience is a plus.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage research projects independently.
• Interest or experience in the agricultural sector of Nelspruit/Mpumalanga, ZA valued.

Responsibilities

• Lead research projects on insect pests affecting key crops.
• Develop and evaluate integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.
• Conduct field and lab experiments on insect behavior, life cycles, and population dynamics.
• Analyze data and interpret results to inform pest management.
• Identify and characterize novel pest control methods (biological/chemical).
• Collaborate with farmers, agronomists, and researchers.
• Publish reports and presentations; contribute to grant writing.

Skills

Insect biology

Pest management

Data analysis (R/SAS/SPSS)

Independent research management

Communication

Education

PhD in Entomology or related field

Tools

R

SAS

SPSS

GIS/Remote sensing

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading agricultural research and development organization, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Entomologist to join their team in **Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, ZA**. This role focuses on advancing integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, studying insect behavior, physiology, and ecology, and developing sustainable solutions for crop protection. You will lead research projects, conduct field trials, analyze data, and disseminate findings to stakeholders. The ideal candidate possesses a deep theoretical knowledge of entomology, extensive practical experience in agricultural pest management, and a proven ability to conduct independent research and collaborate effectively. This is a vital opportunity to contribute to agricultural sustainability and food security in the **Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, ZA** region and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research projects on insect pests affecting key agricultural crops.
• Develop and evaluate integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.
• Conduct field and laboratory experiments to study insect behavior, life cycles, and population dynamics.
• Analyze experimental data and interpret results to inform pest management recommendations.
• Identify and characterize novel pest control methods, including biological and chemical agents.
• Collaborate with farmers, agronomists, and other researchers.
• Prepare scientific publications, reports, and presentations.
• Contribute to grant writing and secure research funding.
• Mentor junior researchers and provide technical guidance.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Entomology, Agronomy, or a closely related biological science.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral or relevant industry experience in agricultural entomology.
• Strong knowledge of insect biology, ecology, and pest management principles.
• Experience in designing and conducting field trials and laboratory experiments.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software (e.g., R, SAS, SPSS).
• Experience with GIS and/or remote sensing for pest monitoring is a plus.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to manage research projects independently.
• Passion for sustainable agriculture and crop protection.
• Experience or interest in the agricultural sector of **Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, ZA** is highly valued.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including health insurance, retirement contributions, and performance-based incentives.
• You will have access to modern research facilities, extensive field trial sites, and opportunities for professional development, including conference attendance and training.
• This hybrid role allows for a flexible work arrangement.
• Contribute to meaningful research that impacts food production and sustainability, based in the agriculturally rich region of **Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, ZA**.
• Join a dedicated team focused on innovation in agricultural science.