Postdoctoral Fellow - Behavioral and Chemical Ecology Unit at icipe - African Insect Science for Food and Health

Overall purpose of the job

To develop a nature-based surveillance system derived from semiochemicals for legume pests to reduce farmer reliance on environmentally damaging insecticide for crop protection.

Specific Duties

The successful candidate is expected to:

• Field test Clavigralla aggregation pheromone for optimization and use in biological control with natural enemies.
• Identify a natural source of the aggregation pheromone for use by small holder farmers.
• Elucidate the sensory biology of pheromone detection by Clavigralla and its key natural enemies.
• Investigate the role of background odors in pheromone detection in different cropping systems.

Requirements/Qualifications

• A PhD degree in Entomology/ Chemistry with a strong focus on Chemical Ecology of PlantInsect Interactions.
• At least 2 years' post PhD experience working in a chemical ecology laboratory with field experience.
• Experience working on legume pests a plus.
• Excellent publications in reputable peer-reviewed journals required.
• Excellent written and oral communication essential for the position.

Core Competencies

• Demonstrated ability to mobilise resources for effective research.
• Ability to create and foster an innovative work environment, including team building to deliver on agreed goals.
• High degree of organisation, adaptability, and prioritisation.
• Experience in capacity building through supervision and mentorship of MSc and undergraduate students.
• Excellent communication skills and collaborative network of partners at national and international levels

Reporting

• This position reports to the Research Consultant and Head, Behavioural and Chemical Ecology Unit.