Senior Entomologist - Pest Management Solutions

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 900.000 - 1.300.000; Vollzeit

Benefits dieser Stelle

Competitive salary and benefits

Comprehensive health benefits

Retirement savings plan

Hybrid work arrangement

Professional development support (con.

Access to well-equipped laboratories

Impactful pest management research

Zusammenfassung

Placements24 invites applications for a Senior Entomologist at our client, a prominent agricultural research institution in Polokwane, Limpopo. The role leads pest management R&D, studying insect behavior and resistance, and developing sustainable IPM strategies for regional crops.

The hybrid position combines field and lab work with remote data analysis, mentorship of junior staff, collaboration across teams, and dissemination of findings through reports and publications to farmers and

Qualifikationen

• Ph.D. in Entomology, Ecology, or a related agricultural science field.
• A minimum of 6 years of post-doctoral research experience in agricultural entomology and pest management.
• Strong understanding of insect taxonomy, physiology, and behavior.
• Proven experience in designing and implementing field and laboratory experiments.
• Expertise in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles and pesticide resistance management.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software and data interpretation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a publication record.
• Ability to work effectively in both field and laboratory settings, as well as remotely.
• Familiarity with the agricultural landscape and key pests of the Limpopo region.

Aufgaben

• Conduct research on insect pests affecting major crops in the region, focusing on identification, biology, and ecology.
• Develop and evaluate IPM strategies, including biological, cultural, and chemical control methods.
• Design and execute field trials to assess the efficacy of new pest control agents and technologies.
• Monitor pest populations and insecticide resistance levels in target areas.
• Provide technical expertise and training to growers, extension agents, and industry partners.
• Analyze research data and prepare comprehensive reports, scientific publications, and extension materials.
• Stay current with advancements in entomological research, pest management practices, and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on research projects and product development.
• Contribute to the development of pest management guidelines and best practices for the Limpopo province.
• Mentor junior entomologists and technicians.

Kenntnisse

IPM principles

Insect taxonomy

Data analysis

Communication

Ausbildung

Ph.D. in Entomology or related field

Tools

Statistical analysis software

Jobbeschreibung

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural research institution located in Polokwane, Limpopo, is seeking an experienced Senior Entomologist to lead their pest management research and development efforts. This vital role focuses on understanding insect behavior, life cycles, and their impact on agricultural crops, as well as developing effective and sustainable control strategies. The ideal candidate will have a deep knowledge of insect ecology, integrated pest management (IPM) techniques, and resistance management. You will be responsible for designing and conducting field and laboratory studies, analyzing data, and providing expert guidance to farmers and agricultural stakeholders in the Limpopo region and beyond. This hybrid position allows for flexible work arrangements, combining essential fieldwork and lab work with opportunities for remote data analysis and reporting. Join a team dedicated to ensuring crop health and maximizing agricultural productivity through advanced entomological science.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research on insect pests affecting major crops in the region, focusing on identification, biology, and ecology.
• Develop and evaluate integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, including biological, cultural, and chemical control methods.
• Design and execute field trials to assess the efficacy of new pest control agents and technologies.
• Monitor pest populations and insecticide resistance levels in target areas.
• Provide technical expertise and training to growers, extension agents, and industry partners.
• Analyze research data and prepare comprehensive reports, scientific publications, and extension materials.
• Stay current with advancements in entomological research, pest management practices, and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on research projects and product development.
• Contribute to the development of pest management guidelines and best practices for the Limpopo province.
• Mentor junior entomologists and technicians.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Entomology, Ecology, or a related agricultural science field.
• A minimum of 6 years of post-doctoral research experience in agricultural entomology and pest management.
• Strong understanding of insect taxonomy, physiology, and behavior.
• Proven experience in designing and implementing field and laboratory experiments.
• Expertise in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles and pesticide resistance management.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software and data interpretation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a publication record.
• Ability to work effectively in both field and laboratory settings, as well as remotely.
• Familiarity with the agricultural landscape and key pests of the Limpopo region.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to field sites.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, and retirement savings plan.
• This hybrid role provides flexibility, balancing essential fieldwork with remote work capabilities.
• Employees benefit from professional development opportunities, including support for attending scientific conferences and workshops.
• Access to well-equipped laboratories and research facilities.
• Opportunities to contribute to impactful research that supports agricultural sustainability and food security in Polokwane and surrounding areas.
• Join a dynamic team of researchers dedicated to advancing pest management solutions.
• This role offers a chance to make a significant impact on the agricultural sector.