Research Supervisor (Molecular Breeding) at IITA

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is a not-for-profit institution that generates agricultural innovations to meet Africa’s most pressing challenges of hunger, malnutrition, poverty, and natural resource degradation. Working with various partners across sub-Saharan Africa, we improve livelihoods, enhance food and nutrition security, increase employment, and preserve natural resource integrity. IITA is a member of CGIAR, a global agriculture research partnership for a food secure future. 
We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Key Responsibilities:
Successful candidate will among other things perform the following duties: 

• Support scientists of the AfricaYam project in genotyping, phenotyping, in vitro establishment and multiplication of true to type, disease and pest-free yam to ensure project goals are accomplished using high quality data and planting material;
• Optimize and implement standardized protocols for leaf tissue collection, DNA extraction, and low-throughput genotyping for quality control, identification, and fidelity testing of yam clones;
• Prepare leaf or DNA samples for NGS-based high-throughput genotyping at external service providers or collaborators and conduct analysis of DNA marker data and prepare reports for AfricaYam scientists;
• Carry out field, screen house, or laboratory activities to evaluate mapping populations and association panels for agronomic, disease and pest resistance, and tuber quality traits;
• Collect, collate and summarize field, screen house and lab data using electronic devices and data management software to prepare reports, monitor multiplication rates, and maintain accurate inventories;
• Assist in developing user-friendly SNP DNA marker assays for routine genotyping applications;
• Co-ordinate with Germplasm Health Unit and Genetic Resource Center staff to establish and maintain virus-free stocks of yam for back-up, multiplication, and distribution of genetic populations;
• Perform any other duty assigned by the Supervisor

Qualifications 

• B.Sc/HND in Biotechnology, Plant Breeding, Genetics, Molecular Biology or related discipline with at least two (2) years’ relevant experience performing similar role.

The ideal candidate must: 

• Have applied knowledge in molecular genetics, plant propagation, crop breeding and genetics, plant pathology, post-harvest storage and screen house nursery / field trial management.
• Excellent knowledge of data management and statistical analysis software programs.
• Good knowledge of software used to analyze DNA marker data.
• Proactive, innovative and creative attitudes and ability to learn new skills quickly.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English are required

Apply Now Save Job

Jobs in Nigeria | Latest Jobs in Nigeria | Top Jobs in Nigeria Today | Current Jobs in Nigeria