International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) Recruits Research Administrative Manager

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is one of the world's leading research partners in finding solutions for hunger, malnutrition, and poverty. Our award-winning research for development (R4D) addresses the development needs of tropical countries. We work with partners to enhance crop quality and productivity, reduce producer and consumer risks, and generate wealth from agriculture.

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture seeks suitable candidates for the below position at the Institute’s Headquarters in Ibadan.

Job Title: Research Administrative Manager (2-year renewable contract)

Location: Ibadan

Duties
Successful candidate will

• Plan, coordinate and supervise all laboratory-based activities related to aflatoxin biocontrol in Ibadan (sample processing, staff organization, supply management)
• Assist in managing projects by ensuring that all deliverables are on track and flag corrective actions when necessary
• Plan, prepare draft and finalize research protocols in consultation with scientists; Ensure quality of laboratory and, where needed, field experiments
• Be responsible for maintaining database of all research results; Assist in training of students, staff and national program personnel
• Assist With monitoring of expenditure in relation to budget in consultation with the project Administration unit and the Pathology Secretary; responsible for the development of a cataloguing system for samples and isolates
• Collect, analyze and interpret data and prepare reports in a timely manner; Work with non-governmental organizations end community based organizations to disseminate technologies for disease management, particularly for aftatoxin biocontrol
• Liaison With private sector partners, farmer organization, extension services and NGO5 to create public-private partnerships for linking farmers using aflatoxin management practices (including AflaSafe) to value-added markets
• Prepare promotional material, draft.popular articles for web-based knowledge, dissemination, update new IITA Aflasafe website with relevant materials
• Assist in preparation of manuscripts and grant proposals
• Assist in preparation of technical reports for submission to donors
• Help in liaising with collaborators internally within IITA and externally in other organizations: Assist in the recruitment of the right quality of personnel in consultation with the Human Resources Unit for position in the unit
• Responsible for the management of project documents in consultation with scientists and administrative units
• Perform any other duties that may be assigned by the Supervisor.

Qualification and Experience

• MSc degree in Plant Pathotogy/Microbiology/Environmental Technology/Biochemistry/ Molecular Biology or other related science discipline.
• At least 5 years working experience, of which three years in a managerial role.
• At least 3 years experience in a research laboratory dealing with microbiological or chemical analysis.

The ideal canddate must have

• Strong interpersonal relationship and has good communication skills.
• Experience systematically following.up on project deliverables.
• Excellent and proven management, organizational and coordination skills.
• Ability to build and work in teams.
• Experience with working with private sector, government and non-governmental organizations.
• Prepared to travel whenever required
• Willingness and ability to work tong and irregular hours if required
• Applicants must have high integrity, be honest and possess good interpersonal and communication skills. He/she must also be able to work under pressure and on weekends when necessary.

Remuneration
Highly competitive salary with equally attractive fringe benefits and excellent working conditions in a pleasant campus environment.

Application Closing Date
24th December, 2012

Method of Application
Interested applicants should forward their applications with detailed curriculum vitae, the names and e-mail addresses of three professional referees which must include either the Head of applicant’s current or previous organization or applicant’s direct Supervisor/Superior officer at work. Evidence of current remuneration package and photocopies of credentials, to IITA website.