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 position of:
Job Title: Post - Doctoral Scientist Virology/Molecular Biology
Ref: DDG-R4D/PDS/01/15)
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Background
A post-doctoral scientist is required to work on a GIZ supported project to develop and apply a Virus Induced Gene Silencing (VIGS) system for cassava, a major industrial crop globally, and a food staple in Africa. VIGS technology for cassava will be developed in collaboration with the Plant Virus Department of the Leibniz Institute DSMZ-German Collection of Microorganisms and Cell Cultures, Germany, and the incumbent will be responsible for transferring the technology to IITA-Nairobi, located at the BioSciences eastern and central Africa - International Livestock Research Institute (BecA-ILRI) hub in Nairobi, Kenya, where well-established facilities for plant molecular biology, including sequencing and plant transformation exist.
At the BecA-ILRI hub in Kenya, the post-doctoral scientist will conduct RNASeq experiments to identify novel candidate genes associated with two virus diseases which are currently decimating cassava production in parts of Africa, namely Cassava Brown Streak Disease (CBSD) and Cassava Mosaic Disease (CMD). Already identified candidate genes and others that will be identified during the course of the project will be functionally validated by applying VIGS to cassava. Transfer of technology is in the remit of the incumbent and this will necessitate some time spent in Germany and in Kenya. The incumbent will also be involved in training of African scientists from a number of countries in VIGS and other aspects to make the technology more widely available.
Position/Responsibilities
- 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
Educational Qualifications
- The candidate should have a Ph.D in Virology or Molecular Biology or associated discipline from a highly recognized university.
Core Competencies:
- 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.
General information/Remuneration
- 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 to:
The Head,
Human Resources Service,
International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA),
PMB 5320,
Ibadan, Oyo State,
Nigeria .
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