Research Assistant (Seed Technologist)

CGIAR System Organization; Montpellier; Sur place; EUR 40 000 - 60 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

A global research organization is seeking a Research Assistant (Seed Technologist) to improve seed systems and increase potato productivity. This role involves managing quality seed production, training farmers, and engaging with local communities. Applicants should have a Master’s degree and 5 years of relevant experience, ideally in potato seed production systems. Strong knowledge of seed certification and problem-solving skills are essential. This position offers professional growth within agricultural research.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in potato seed production systems.
• Experience in international agricultural R&D projects.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Responsabilités

• Establish and manage quality seed potato production systems.
• Conduct field inspections and virus testing.
• Train farmers and technicians on seed standards.

Connaissances

Seed certification standards understanding

Phytosanitary regulations knowledge

Analytical and problem-solving skills

Communication and training skills

Formation

Master’s degree in a relevant field

Description du poste

Overview

The International Potato Center (CIP) is a global, non-profit research organization that works to improve food security, nutrition, and incomes in developing countries through research and innovation in root and tuber crops—primarily potatoes and sweet potatoes. CIP’s focus areas include crop improvement, sustainable farming, nutrition and food systems, value chains and market access, and climate resilience. CIP is looking for a dedicated and skilled Research Assistant (Seed Technologist) who is passionate about fieldwork and agricultural development. The role supports an innovative potato development initiative aimed at strengthening seed systems and improving potato productivity. The position is based in Agra and involves working closely with local communities, farmers, and research activities to implement project objectives.

This position offers the opportunity to contribute to agricultural research addressing food production and sustainability challenges, with potential to enhance food security, reduce poverty, and promote sustainable livelihoods in the region. It also provides professional growth and a tangible impact on regional development and wellbeing. The key deliverables/expectations from the position are described below.

Responsibilities

1. Seed System Development & Management: Establish, monitor, and scale up quality seed potato production systems (G0 to G3 stage).
2. Seed System Development & Management: Manage tissue culture labs, screenhouses, aeroponics facilities, or minituber production units.
3. Seed System Development & Management: Implement best practices for seed multiplication, storage, grading, and disease-free maintenance.
4. Technical Expertise & Quality Control: Conduct field inspections, disease indexing, and virus testing (ELISA, PCR, etc.).
5. Technical Expertise & Quality Control: Maintain seed health and genetic purity across multiplication stages.
6. Technical Expertise & Quality Control: Support varietal evaluation, adaptability studies, and early generation seed management.
7. Technical Expertise & Quality Control: Introduce and optimize technologies such as true potato seed (TPS), aeroponics, and digital monitoring tools.
8. Technical Expertise & Quality Control: Develop and test protocols for large-scale seed production under local agro-climatic conditions.
9. Capacity Building & Extension: Train farmers, technicians, and seed growers on seed standards, GAP, and storage.
10. Capacity Building & Extension: Provide technical guidance to contract growers and partner organizations.
11. Capacity Building & Extension: Develop manuals, SOPs, and training materials for seed potato value chain actors.
12. Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement: Liaise with government agencies, certification authorities, and research institutes (ICAR, SAUs, state DoH, etc.).
13. Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement: Work with private sector companies, NGOs, and cooperatives on seed multiplication programs.
14. Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement: Support public–private partnerships for seed supply chain development.
15. Data & Reporting: Document production protocols, yield performance, and quality analysis.
16. Data & Reporting: Maintain records for traceability and certification audits.
17. Data & Reporting: Prepare technical reports, publications, and presentations.

Requirements

Education:

• Master’s degree (M.Sc./M.Tech.) in Plant Breeding, Seed Technology, Biotechnology, Horticulture, or related field.

Experience:

• Minimum 5 years of experience in potato seed production systems, preferably with exposure to tissue culture, aeroponics, or TPS.
• Ph.D. in Plant Breeding, Seed Technology, or related discipline (preferred).
• Experience in international agricultural R&D projects.
• Familiarity with climate-smart and sustainable potato production practices.

Languages:

• English and Hindi

Specialization:

• Strong understanding of seed certification standards and phytosanitary regulations.
• Practical experience with seed health testing and disease management.
• Experience in farmer training, capacity building, and field-level implementation.
• Technical expertise in potato seed systems and plant health management.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage seed facilities and ensure quality standards.
• Good communication, training, and report-writing skills.
• Ability to work with diverse stakeholders (researchers, farmers, private sector).
• Knowledge of digital tools for monitoring and data management is an added advantage.

The initial contractual appointment for this role will be until March 2026, with a high possibility of contract renewal based on project requirements and individual performance.

CIP is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified women are particularly encouraged to apply.