International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is recruiting candidates for a Research Associate, TORs – Plantain and Banana Improvement Program.
JOB TITLE: Research Associate, TORs – Plantain and Banana Improvement Program
JOB LOCATION: Oyo
JOB DETAIL:
Successful candidates will among other things perform the following duties:
- Assist plantain/banana breeders in planning and implementing laboratory and field research activities for the breeding programme and manage the breeding database;
- Supervise field/laboratory research activities across plantain breeding and trial sites, breeding operations including field preparation and layout, field management, pollinations, and data collection;
- Be responsible for updating and maintaining trial records and pedigree records on banana breeding database (MUSABASE) and backstop plantain breeding staff on digital data entry and use of applicable software; and liaise with the banana breeding team in East Africa
- Assist in designing experiments, collating data, running statistical analysis (ANOVAS for comparing genotype performance for a single location and multi-environment trials), conduct a literature search and prepare good quality reports;
- Supervise germplasm multiplication and distribution activities for the program; Keep track of hybrids being used worldwide and organise feedback
- Plan and ensure procurement of supplies for laboratory, field, and screen house activities, oversee hiring and supervision of casual labor for various operations while maintaining strict control of budget expenditures;
- Supervise junior staff and assist in annual performance appraisals;
- Assist graduate students on their research projects and trainees/interns as required;
- Assist the IITA plantain breeder with reporting to donors;
- Perform all other related duties that may be assigned by the supervisor.
Qualifications
- M.Sc in Plant Breeding, Crop Production, Agronomy, or related discipline with a strong background in genetics, computer science/data management and/or statistics and proven skills in reporting.
- A minimum of three (3) years’ experience performing similar functions or related roles in an agricultural research organization or equivalent experience is desired.
Competencies
The ideal candidate must:
- Possess excellent computer skills in MS-Office (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) and strong knowledge in experimental design and use of statistical analysis packages;
- Have excellent writing and oral communication skills in English.
- Be well organized and work effectively in a team, able to work under pressure and meet deadlines, implement protocols, troubleshoot and train subordinates.
- *Experience in database management and use of statistical analysis software (particularly R) would be considered as an advantage.
Method of Application
Interested applicants should complete the online application attaching detailed cover letter and curriculum vitae saved with their names in Microsoft word format, The application must include the names and e-mail addresses of three professional referees which must include the applicant’s current or previous direct Supervisor, professional colleague and evidence of current remuneration package.
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Click here for more information (PDF)
Note: IITA is an equal opportunity employer and particularly welcomes applications from female candidates.
Job Features
Job Category | Research / Survey |
Deadline | 28th February, 2020. |