ILRI Vacancy: Research Associate – IITA (Closing date: 13 November 2024)

The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) seeks to recruit a Research Associate on behalf of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) to support the molecular characterization of gene-edited plants, including banana and yam.

ILRI works to improve food and nutritional security and reduce poverty in developing countries through research for efficient, safe, and sustainable use of livestock. It is the only one of 15 CGIAR research centres dedicated entirely to animal agriculture research for the developing world. Co-hosted by Kenya and Ethiopia, it has regional or country offices and projects in East, South, and Southeast Asia as well as Central, East, Southern, and West Africa.

ILRI hosts the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Nairobi. IITA works with partners throughout Africa and beyond to reduce producer and consumer risks, enhance crop quality and productivity, and generate wealth from agriculture.

Key Responsibilities

The position focuses on performing genomic DNA extractions, PCR, Southern blotting, qRT-PCR, sequencing, mutation detection, and maintaining bacterial cultures. The successful candidate will work closely with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and contribute to ongoing research in plant genome editing and trait enhancement.

• Perform genomic DNA extraction from various transgenic and gene-edited events of banana, yam, or any other crops for molecular analysis.
• Conduct PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) and qRT-PCR (quantitative Real-Time PCR) to assess gene expression and mutation verification.
• Perform mutation detection assays, including T7 endonuclease and band-shift analysis.
• Carry out Southern blot analysis for gene copy number determination and transgene integration.
• Sequence analysis for detection and validation of gene edits using techniques such as Sanger or next-generation sequencing.
• Maintain and propagate bacterial cultures for plasmid DNA preparations.
• Prepare media and assist in sub-culturing the plants. Assist in the maintenance of gene-edited plant lines in the lab and greenhouse.
• Ensure accurate data collection, analysis, and record-keeping for experimental results.
• Assist in preparing reports, presentations, and manuscripts related to the research findings.
• Collaborate with other team members and provide technical support in molecular techniques.
• Perform any other duty assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, Biotechnology, Genetics, or a related field with 1 year of experience or Diploma in relevant field with 3 years experience.
• Relevant professional certification.
• Hands-on experience with molecular techniques such as DNA extraction, PCR, qRT-PCR, and sequencing.
• Familiarity with Southern blotting and mutation detection assays is a plus.
• Ability to maintain detailed lab records and follow protocols with precision.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for working in a collaborative research environment.

Post Location

The position will be based in Nairobi, Kenya.

Terms of Appointment

This position is at job level HG10 and it is only open to Kenyan nationals. The position is a 3-year contract, renewable subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funding. ILRI offers a competitive salary and benefits package which includes pension, medical, and other insurances.

How to Apply

Applicants should send a cover letter and CV expressing their interest in the position, what they can bring to the job, and the names and addresses (including telephone and email) of three referees who are knowledgeable about the candidate’s professional qualifications and work experience to the Chief, People and Culture Officer through our portal at ilri.simplicant.com on or before 13 November 2024. The position title and reference number REF:RA/IITA/2024 should be clearly marked on the subject line of the cover letter.

We thank all applicants for their interest in working for ILRI. Due to the volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

ILRI does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview meeting, processing, or training). ILRI also does not concern itself with information on applicants’ bank accounts.