Post-Doctoral Scientist at International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA)

IITA is an international non-profit agricultural research-for-development (R4D) organization established in 1967, governed by a Board of Trustees, and a member of the CGIAR Consortium. Our R4D approach is anchored on the development needs of tropical nations

We work with partners to enhance crop quality and productivity, reduce producer and consumer risks, and generate wealth from agriculture. We have more than 100 internationally recruited scientists from about 35 countries and 900 nationally recruited staff based in various stations across Africa.

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) invites applications for the below position:

Job Title: Post-doctoral Scientist

Location: Nigeria

Job Description

• Transfer of VIGS technology from Germany to Kenya. This will involve up to six months stay in Germany, hosting German post-doc at IITA-Nairobi, and some travel between Kenya and Germany.
• Establishment of RNASeq experiments, extraction of RNA, cDNA and library preparation.
• Analysis of RNA-Seq data for comparative gene expression
• Design of appropriate gene constructs for functional validation using VIGS
• Apply VIGS to cassava and to functionally validate genes putatively associated with virus resistance
• Conduct short-term training courses for African scientists in VIGS
  

Minimum Qualification & Experience

• The candidate should have a Ph.D in Virology or Molecular Biology or associated discipline from a highly recognized university.
  

Skills & Abilities

• Excellent molecular biology skills, preferably with experience in VIGS.
• Experience with conducting RNASeq experiments and Illumina library preparation.
• Bioinformatics skills including experience with the analysis of RNA-Seq data for gene expression.
• Excellent skills in plant molecular biology including knowledge of host plant resistance mechanisms.
• Willingness to travel between Kenya and Germany and spend up to six months in Germany. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent spoken and written English.
• Demonstrated ability to write and publish articles in peer reviewed international journals. Ability to work independently in a multi-disciplinary, multi-institutional, and multi-cultural environment.
• Willingness to travel within the region.
• Research experience in sub-Saharan Africa is an asset.

Terms & Conditions:

• Duty station: IITA-Nairobi, Kenya General information: Initial appointment is for two years. IITA offers a competitive remuneration package paid in US dollars.

Application Closing Date
20th February, 2015

Method of Application
Interested and qualified candidates should address their applications, which should address how the candidate's background/experience relates to the specific duties of the position applied for, curriculum vitae, names and addresses of three professional referees (which must include either the Head of the applicant's current or previous organization or applicant's direct Supervisor/Superior at his/her present or former place of work), names and addresses of three referees to:

The Head,
Human Resources Service
International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA),
PMB 5320,
Ibadan, Oyo State,
Nigeria .

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