R&D Specialist

Rovensa is hiring an R&D Specialist for Entomology in Western Cape, South Africa. This role involves overseeing laboratory operations, maintaining insect colonies, conducting bioassays, and supporting R&D activities. Candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree in Biological or Agri sciences, preferably with an entomological focus, and at least 2 years of lab experience. The position requires strong organizational skills and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
Rovensa Next is the Rovensa Group’s global business unit, specialising in biosolutions for agriculture.It is made up of twelve pioneering Rovensa Group companies: Agrichembio, Agro-K, Agrotecnología, Cosmocel, Idai Nature, Microquimica, MIP Agro, Oro Agri, OGT, Rodel, SDP and Tradecorp, with a consolidated background in sustainable crop nutrition and biocontrol management.Rovensa Next combines local technical knowledge, innovation and teams that work alongside farmers and distributors in the field to solve their sustainability challenges, backed by the global expertise and leadership of the Rovensa Group. It is aimed to shape a sustainable future for agriculture and drive its biotransformation. When you join Rovensa Next you are not just joining a dynamic team of people gearing up to create a sustainable future – you are joining a team that is intent on making it a reality.


Let’s grow greener!


www.rovensanext.com/ YOUR MISSION: The R&D Specialist for Entomology will oversee all entomology-related laboratory operations under the guidance of the Entomology Lead. This role includes maintaining insect colonies, conducting efficacy bioassays, and carrying out chemical-ecology related experiments. The R&D Specialist will be responsible for delivering the technical support required to ensure the laboratory and insectaries run smoothly, while following established procedures and adhering to health and safety standards.


The R&D Specialist will also provide general support to the Research and Development department. While the primary focus will be on entomology, the specialist may occasionally assist with additional R&D activities as needed within the R&D Team at the Strand location.


YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES: Maintenance of insect colonies; feeding, rearing and monitoring.


Conduct research activities and other tasks as defined by trial protocols for in-vitro efficacy testing of new actives and products to determine efficacy spectrum characterization, range rate determination, benchmark evaluation and Mode of Action. Assist researchers in project planning, writing protocols and literature research.


Assist in performing laboratory bioassays (i.e. efficacy trials), as well as other chemical-ecology related experiments. Follow established procedures for performing activities in the laboratory.


Provide technical support to enable the laboratory and insectaries to function effectively, while adhering to correct procedures and health & safety guidelines


Capturing and processing data on MS Excel.


Set up, maintain, and clean laboratory instruments and equipment as needed.


Assist with laboratory stock and resource management, ensuring resources are clearly and correctly labelled. Document all work, including procedures, observations and results.


THE TALENT WE ARE LOOKING FOR: Bachelor of Science degree (Bsc) in Biological or Agri sciences, preference with a entomological specialization and focus. A Master of Science degree (Msc) in Entomology will be an asset.


At least 2 years’ experience working in a laboratory with microscopy skills


Experience in rearing insects would be advantageous An AVCASA certificate will be an advantage


Ability to work independently as well as part of a team, capacity to carry out experiments to completion with moderate guidance


Strong organizational skills and ability to multitask and balance priorities when necessary


Excellent analytical skills
Good observational skills and attention to detail


Intellectual curiosity and ability to learn quickly, innovation mindset, think creatively and critically


Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with a relationship driven approach to develop close working relationships with key stakeholders across all organizational levels


Be flexible and willing to operate out of normal working hours to accommodate trials


Fluency in English
Computer literate (Microsoft pack office).


Driver’s licence WHAT WE OFFER: Professional Growth: Opportunities for continuous learning and career development.


Innovative Environment: Work with cutting-edge products and technologies in the Biosolututions market.


Collaborative Culture: Be part of a supportive and dynamic team that values collaboration and innovation.


Global Impact: Contribute to sustainable agriculture and make a positive impact on the environment This position is to be filled as soon as possible. Permanent contract, based in Strand (Cape Town) Le groupe Rovensa est un employeur qui prône l’égalité des chances et s’engage en faveur de la diversité et de l’inclusion sur le lieu de travail. Nous interdisons toute forme de discrimination et de harcèlement fondée sur la race, la couleur, le sexe, la religion, l’orientation sexuelle, l’origine, le handicap, les informations génétiques, la grossesse ou toute autre ca