Research Associate – Molecular Biology

CIP; Montpellier; Sur place; EUR 35 000 - 55 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

A leading agricultural research organization is seeking a Research Associate in Molecular Biology to join their Biotech team. The role involves optimizing protocols for genome editing in potato plants and requires advanced skills in molecular biology. Candidates should hold a relevant Master's degree and have significant experience in a similar environment. Proficiency in English and Swahili is necessary for effective communication within an international team.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a relevant field is required.
• At least four years of experience in a similar role.
• Excellent knowledge in molecular biology and plant technologies.

Responsabilités

• Optimize protoplast isolation and regeneration protocols.
• Develop and validate gene constructs.
• Characterize genome-edited events using PCR and bioinformatics.

Connaissances

Molecular biology

Genome editing

Genetic transformation

Plant tissue culture

Communication

Networking

Formation

Master’s degree in agricultural biotechnology, biology, biochemistry, or plant pathology

Description du poste

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Research Associate – Molecular Biology, Montpellier

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Client:

CIP

Location:

Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Reference:

4bba93fe9bfb

Job Views:

3

Posted:

28.06.2025

Expiry Date:

12.08.2025

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Job Description:

The International Potato Center (CIP) is seeking a dynamic and experienced Research Associate, to be based in Nairobi, Kenya.

About CIP

CIP is a not-for-profit international agricultural research organization with a global mandate to conduct research on potatoes, sweet potatoes, Andean root and tuber crops, and sustainable management of natural resources. CIP’s vision is to contribute from its areas of expertise to the fulfillment of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), particularly those related to poverty, hunger, child and maternal mortality, and sustainable development. CIP has its headquarters in Lima, Peru, with staff and activities across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. CIP is a member of One CGIAR, a global research partnership dedicated to transforming food, land, and water systems amidst a climate crisis, carried out by 13 CGIAR Centers/Alliances in collaboration with various partners.

About the role

The selected candidate will be part of the Biotech team under the supervision of the Associate Scientist-Molecular Biologist.

Key Responsibilities:

• Optimize protoplast isolation and regeneration protocols for efficient production of genome-edited potato plants.
• Gene construct development and validation.
• Transient expression vectors producing CAS9 and gRNA, RNP transfection, and VIGE to achieve foreign-DNA-free edited events.
• Characterize transgenic and genome-edited events using PCR, RT-qPCR, Southern blot, sequencing, and bioinformatics.
• Phenotyping by artificial infection of plants using local pathogen strains in a biosafety glasshouse.
• Manage heavy intermittent workloads that may extend beyond office hours and weekends.
• Perform any other duties assigned.

Requirements

What are we looking for?

• Master’s degree in agricultural biotechnology, biology, biochemistry, or plant pathology with strong molecular biology skills.
• At least four years’ experience in a similar role.
• Excellent knowledge of molecular biology, genome editing, genetic transformation, and plant tissue culture, preferably with roots, tubers, or banana crops.
• Advanced written and oral communication skills in English and Swahili.
• Strong communication and networking skills; interest and demonstrated ability to work in a multidisciplinary and multicultural environment.