Mpilo Memory

Entomology Research Technician with a master's degree in agriculture and experience in field and laboratory-based pest surveillance. Primary responsible for monitoring psyllid populations in citrus orchards, with a particular focus on Trioza erytreae and Diaphorina citri. Skilled in field sampling, data collection, and insect identification.

Involved in the monitoring of key agricultural pests including Macadamia Felted Coccid (MFC) and Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer (PSHB). Provide support in fruit fly rearing, as well as fieldwork and laboratory activities. Skilled in multi-species pest surveillance, integrated pest management (IPM) and research support.

Entomology Research Technician - Agricultural Research Council

(2024-12)

• Conduct psyllid trap installation, monitoring, and field surveillance to track population trends.
• Monitor MFC populations across field sites
• Assist with rearing and maintenance of laboratory fruit fly colonies (Bactrocera dorsalis, Ceratitis capitata, Ceratitis rosa, Ceratitis quilicii, Ceratitis cosyra)
• Preparation of artificial diets and management of developmental stages
• Monitoring survival and emergence under controlled conditions
• Identification of psyllids, fruit flies, Drosophila suzukii, MFC and PSHB
• Extraction of psyllids (Trioza erytreae)

Intern - HL Hall and Sons Pty Ltd

(2024-02 - 2024-11)

• Carried out scout inspections and maintain insect monitoring traps as well as reporting insect incidence
• Monitored fruit for diseases and defects in both the packhouse and laboratory
• Collected fruit, Leaf, and soil samples for analysis
• Performed daily assessments of fruit weight, size, and ripening, documenting data to inform post-harvest management
• Performed fruit packaging and labelling according to quality and safety standards
• Monitored irrigation management to maintain optimal fruit development and quality
• Conducted moisture content analysis in avocado and kiwi fruits and measured soil moisture in the field
• Assisted in pruning of trees and fruit harvesting
• Measured Total Soluble solids (TSS) as well as Titratable Acidity (TA) in litchi and Kiwi fruits

Chemistry demonstrator & tutor - University of Mpumalanga

(2023-03 - 2023-11)

• Collaboratively demonstrated laboratory experiments with colleagues to students, explaining procedures and techniques before hands-on practical
• Conducted laboratory sessions collaboratively with colleagues, assisting students and marking practical scripts as requested by chemistry lecturers
• Supported students individually and in groups with laboratory assignments, monitoring progress and providing feedback in consultation with the course supervisor
• Conducted tutorial sessions to reinforce classroom learning and support student understanding
• Provided support to students by clarifying concepts and answering questions
• Asked questions after tutorial sessions to ensure that students have successively mastered the material, reassured that the students were comfortable during our session, observed student learning style to customize the session to each student individual needs
• Reinforced every concept student learns and present again in a new, creative way if necessary
• Invigilated tests and captured student marks

Education assistant - Magabotse High School

(2021-11 - 2022-03)

• Taught Grade 12 Physical Sciences and Grade 8-9 Natural Sciences, delivering engaging lessons
• Prepared teaching materials and wrote supplementary notes for students
• Maintained a clean and safe classroom, including sanitizing students
• Distributed stationery and learning materials to support daily activities
• Conducted tests and exams, graded student work, and maintained accurate academic records

MSc - Agriculture - University of Mpumalanga (2024)

Bachelor of Science - Agriculture - University of Mpumalanga (2020)