Senior Entomologist: IPM Research Leader

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage

Retirement fund participation

Study leave for professional dev.

Travel to international conferences

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Entomologist to lead cutting-edge research on agricultural pest management in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. You will guide projects from concept to publication, advancing IPM solutions for local crops.

The role requires a PhD in Entomology with 8+ years of post-doctoral experience, strong leadership, and expertise in statistics and modeling. Collaboration with agronomists and stakeholders is essential for real-world farming impact.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Entomology with a strong emphasis on agricultural pests.
• Minimum of 8 years of post-doctoral research experience in agricultural entomology.
• Publications in peer-reviewed journals and successful grant acquisition.
• Experience with statistical software (R, SAS) and biological modeling.

Responsibilities

• Lead research projects focused on identification, biology, and control of economically important agricultural pests.
• Develop and test novel pest management strategies, including biological control, pheromone-based methods, and targeted chemical applications.
• Conduct field and laboratory experiments to evaluate pesticide efficacy, insect resistance, and non-target impacts.
• Analyze complex entomological data using appropriate statistical methods.
• Supervise and mentor junior researchers, technicians, and students.
• Collaborate with agronomists, plant pathologists, and industry stakeholders to integrate pest management solutions into farming systems.
• Prepare high-quality scientific publications, reports, and presentations for national and international audiences.
• Stay abreast of current research, technological advancements, and regulatory changes in entomology and pest management.
• Manage research budgets and grant applications.
• Contribute to the development of extension materials for farmers and agricultural advisors.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Statistical analysis

Education

PhD in Entomology

Tools

R

SAS

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Entomologist to lead cutting-edge research on agricultural pest management in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. You will guide projects from concept to publication, advancing IPM solutions for local crops.

The role requires a PhD in Entomology with 8+ years of post-doctoral experience, strong leadership, and expertise in statistics and modeling. Collaboration with agronomists and stakeholders is essential for real-world farming impact.