Overall Purpose of the Job

This position will contribute to cutting-edge research through identifying novel Red Palm weevil (RPW), nature-based management strategies with main focus on biological and RNAi and improved delivery systems of biocontrol interventions. The candidate will also advance insect symbiosis research for optimal pest, vector, and disease management, biodiversity conservation, food security, and climate resilience.

Specific Duties

• Contribute to the development, evaluation, and scaling of sustainable RPW control strategies, including the use of parasitoids and RNAi techniques for gene silencing.
• Contribute to the development, formulation, and testing of nanotechnology-based delivery systems for improved efficacy of biopesticides and RNAi constructs for RPW management.
• Support coordination and implementation of the RPW project, ensuring effective collaboration with national and international research institutions, policy makers, and development partners.
• Design and implement training programs for local stakeholders to enhance their understanding of climate resilience and sustainable agricultural practices in the context of the RPW project.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to translate laboratory findings into field-relevant technologies and participate in field validation trials.
• Publish high-quality scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals and contribute to the development of technical reports, policy briefs, and extension materials.
• Disseminate research outcomes through stakeholder workshops, farmer field days, and scientific conferences.
• Conduct novel cutting-edge scientific research to develop, adapt, and optimise insect symbiosis for integrated pest, vector, and disease management.
• Mentor and supervise graduate students, interns, technicians, and field staff working on the project.
• Participate in resource mobilisation through research grants

Requirements/Qualifications

• PhD in Entomology, Zoology, Agriculture or related discipline.
• At least one year of postgraduate training.
• Postgraduate experience in integrated pest management and insect symbiosis.
• Experience in microbiology, molecular biology, and biotechnology.
• At least 3 publications on integrated pest management or related areas in peer-reviewed journals.
• Experience in capacity building through supervision and mentorship of M.Sc. students, research assistants, technicians, and interns.

Core Competencies

• Ability to work independently with minimum supervision.
• Ability to mobilise resources for effective research.
• High degree of organisation, adaptability, and prioritisation.
• Ability to create and foster an innovative work environment, including team building, to deliver on project goals.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organisational and leadership skills.
• Fluency in English, and basic knowledge of French and other international languages