Research Associate - Yam Breeding at International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA)

International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (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. Please visit http://www.iita.org/ for more information on IITA.

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture seeks suitable Nigerian Nationals for the position of Research Associate at the Institute’s Headquarters, Ibadan.

Job Title: Research Associate - Yam Breeding (2 year renewable contract)

Location: Ibadan

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

• Assist in scientific and technical backstopping for hardening and transplanting invitro plantlets to aeroponics system for seed yam propagation of grantees
• Provide technical support to grantees for strict sanitation measures in orders to avoid fungal and bacterial contamination as well as pest and diseases for plantlets (set up standard operating procedures)
• Support private seed producers with research activities to overcome limitations constraints for optimization of seed yam production in aeroponic system
• Provide expertise in quality assurance ( PH, Electro conductivity etc.) of nutrient solution for yam propagation in aeroponics system
• Assist the aeroponics grantees (private and public) in planning, implementing and monitoring of contractural activities and timely reporting
• Ensure that planned activities/ tasks are undertaken on schedule and assist assigned staff on site to accomplish their duties timely.
• Supervise technicians and other support staff including youth copper IT student etc.
• Assist in conducting training for seed yam production on eroponics using pr-rooted and non-rooted vine cuttings.
• Perform any other related duties as may assigned

Qualification, Experience and Skills

• MSC in Tissue Culture, Plant Physiology or any related discipline
• Minimum of 3 year relevant working experience on a similar role
• Good skills in MS Office and general knowledge of computer

The ideal candidate must:

• Be able to follow instructions and work independently where necessary.
• Possess good organizational skills and demonstrate ability to work under pressure.
• Be available to work outside office hours and for extended hours where necessary

Remuneration:
We offer highly competitive salary with equally attractive fringe benefits and excellent working conditions in a pleasant campus environment.

Application Closing Date:
23rd April 2014

Method of Application:
Interested applicants should forward their applications with detailed curriculum vitae saved with their names in Microsoft word format to IITA website. The application must include 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 and evidence of current remuneration package to IITA website

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