Description
Research and innovation
Conducts independent research as an internationally renowned specialist, mainly on, but not limited to, insect vector ecology and the pathogens they transmit.
Identify, initiate, design, access funding and conduct research projects on insects of veterinary importance.
Manage data capture, interpret and submit recommendations to research team.
Compile detailed progress reports and approve final reports in fulfilment of contract requirements to external funders.
Disseminate research results by presenting oral and poster contributions at national and international events.
Publish popular, semi-scientific and peer-reviewed papers in journals with high impact factors, national and international.
Referee scientific articles and project proposals for international journals and funding bodies. Willingness to serve on the editorial committee of international journals.
Create, manage and report on project budgets according to the requirements as stipulated by ARC management (Internally and externally).
Establish and maintain networking opportunities.
Participate in the management, maintenance and expansion of the National Collection of Insects of Veterinary Importance with specific reference to tsetse colonisation.
Diagnostics: Routine identification of lice and fleas and information on the control of these and other entomological pests.
Project Management
Conceptualizes and initiates new projects, project definition and develops research plans at both national and international level.
Liaise with National and International funders and other role players on project initiation, objectives, progress and funding.
Identifies the need for resources, equipment and material in projects and manages them accordingly within the team and/ or specialised field.
Ensures optimal utilisation of resources towards successful implementation and completion of the research.
Financial management and optimisation of sustainable external income for programmes and projects.
Providing Scientific Leadership
Leadership with regards to development of proposals for income generation and contribution to sustainable organisation.
Managing the quality of science and plans and co-ordinates research activities within the team.
Identify, acquire, upgrade, manage and maintain research materials and equipment as needed in the section.
Reporting on progress of projects to funders and compiling of management reports within area of responsibility.
Disseminates information.
Publishes research results in high impact international journals.
Create networks, partnerships and collaboration within the programme nationally and internationally as well as stakeholder management.
Participate in Programme and Institute-related administrative and other duties as requested by the line manager.
Risk management and Mitigation: Identifies risks and mitigation plans.
Human Capacity Development
Provide guidance/ help/ on-the-job-training and supervise technical assistance and contract workers appointed in the project.
Developing a lean and agile research team that is responsive to the needs of the agricultural sector.
Evaluate subordinates annually for their performance by means of the set performance evaluations of the ARC.
Identify learning opportunities (formal and informal) for subordinates.
Act as promoter, co-promoter for postgraduate students at tertiary institutions.
Give informal lectures on entomology to promote the activities of the ARC.
Self-development- to be recognised in the international arena and to form part of International funded projects.
Continually update knowledge and develop skills and translate knowledge of advances in the area into research activity.
Safety, Health, and Environment
Ensures compliance with SHE/OHS policies and procedures.
Requirements
PhD or DSc Degree in Entomology/ Parasitology or related field.
More than eight (8) years' experience in a relevant scientific research environment, post PhD, and a proven international record of accomplishment.
Minimum of twenty-five (25) peer-reviewed publications at the date of appointment.
Proven track record of mentoring and supervising/co-supervising other researchers and students' development with a minimum ten (10) MSc or PhD students graduated at the time of appointment.
Relevant experience in epidemiology and vector biology.
Experience in molecular biology is desirable or the will to become proficient in this.
An ability to execute and participate in multi-disciplinary research projects.
Must be able to work independently, reliable, diplomacy, patience and perseverance.
Excellent communication skills (written and verbal).
Registration with a scientific and professional body will be an added advantage.
NRF rating of at least C3 or higher will be an added advantage.
A good knowledge of statistical methods and Geographical Information systems (GIS) will be an advantage.
Evidence of sourcing or obtaining research funds will be an advantage.
Good administration and record keeping skills will be an advantage.