Insect Collector

Terms of Reference (TOR)

1. Chhattisgarh (01)
2. Odisha (02)
3. Mizoram (02)

1. At least one year of field or laboratory experience in collection, handling, and processing of mosquito vectors (larvae, pupae, and adults).
2. Knowledge of computer applications (basic data entry and record keeping).
3. Experience in similar public health/vector-borne disease programmes (preferred).

1. Ability to perform fieldwork in varied terrains and conditions.
2. Basic understanding of mosquito ecology and habitat types (preferred).
3. Good physical fitness for long field hours.
4. Ability to follow instructions, maintain records, and work in teams.
5. Basic computer literacy and willingness to learn field data tools.

About Organization

TCI Foundation is one of the premier non-government ISO 9001:2015 organizations in India. It is an autonomous organization having its presence across the nation. The Foundation works within the ambit of government rules and regulations, and in compliance with the laws of the land. TCI Foundation primarily provides supplementary support as a partner to governments in public health programmes and projects. It also acts as advocating agency in the enactment of public policies in the country.

TCI Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. Employment at TCI Foundation is based solely on individual's merit and qualifications directly related to professional competence. TCI Foundation does not discriminate against any employee or applicant because of race, caste, creed, colour, religion, gender, origin, disability, marital status, or any other basis protected by law.

Background

Strengthening entomological surveillance is a core requirement of the National Malaria Programme under the Global Fund grant. Insect Collectors will support field and laboratory entomology operations by collecting mosquito vectors, assisting in surveillance activities, and supporting entomologists in maintaining field datasets and vector control monitoring. Their contribution is critical to generating reliable entomological evidence for malaria elimination planning.

Objectives of the Assignment

The position aims to:

1. Support collection of mosquito vectors in field and longitudinal entomological surveillance.
2. Assist in monitoring vector density, breeding habitats, and behaviour of mosquitoes.
3. Provide reliable field data to guide vector control strategies
4. Strengthen field-level capacity and entomology operations

Roles and Responsibilities

The Insect Collector will be responsible for the following activities:

A. Field Entomological Activities

1. Conduct regular field collections of mosquito vectors using approved methods, including:

1. Adult mosquito catches (hand collection, light traps, aspirators, etc.)
2. Larval and pupal sampling from breeding habitats
3. Resting and feeding behavior

2. Assist in identifying and mapping vector breeding sites.

Assist the team in setting, retrieving, and maintaining field traps and collection equipment.

B. Laboratory Support

1. Assist in sorting, labeling, and preserving mosquito specimens.
2. Assist in laboratory experiments for determing susceptibility status of mosquito vectors to insecticide
3. Prepare slides and support basic laboratory processing under supervision.4.Maintain cleanliness, organization, and safety of entomology laboratories.

C. Vector Control Monitoring

1. Support entomologists in monitoring LLIN use, IRS quality, and larval source management operations.
2. Assist in conducting cone bioassays and related field tests (if required).

D. Data Handling & Documentation

1. Ensure accurate labelling, tagging, and recording of collected samples.
2. Maintain field registers and support basic data entry.
3. Submit daily/weekly field activity reports to the entomologist or supervisor.

E. Operational Support

1. Assist entomologists and field teams during surveys and training sessions.
2. Safely transport specimens from field locations to laboratories.
3. Undertake field travel as required for surveillance work.

Remember:

1. Check your eligibility before applying.
2. Given the large volume of applications we receive, we are unable to respond to all applicants and our responses are limited to those who are shortlisted.
3. Merely fulfilling the eligibility and applying for the position does not entitle the candidate to be called for interview.
4. No TA/DA will be paid to attend the interview in person.
5. The advertised position can be cancelled/varied as per the discretion of the employer.

Selection:

Selection and appointment shall be carried out through advertisement followed by walk-in- written test/interview (if required), if short listed.

Link for application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf10py0Fbigttlz86LJt61TF-bRhdHFJNJZkTXDbnf547jNRg/viewform