Research Associate – Molecular Biology

CGIAR System Organization; Montpellier; Sur place; EUR 35 000 - 50 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

The International Potato Center (CIP) seeks a dynamic Research Associate to join their Biotech team in Nairobi, Kenya. The role involves optimizing protocols for genome editing, conducting molecular characterizations, and managing complex workloads. A Master’s degree in agricultural biotechnology or related fields, along with advanced molecular biology skills, is essential for this position.

Qualifications

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

Responsabilités

• Optimize protoplast isolation and regeneration protocols for genome-edited potato plants.
• Develop transient expression vectors and perform virus-induced genome editing.
• Conduct phenotyping through artificial infection of plants.

Connaissances

Molecular Biology

Genetic Transformation

Plant Tissue Culture

Communication Skills

Networking Skills

Formation

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

Description du poste

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 in a climate crisis, involving 13 CGIAR Centers/Alliances and numerous partners including research institutes, civil society, academia, development organizations, and the private sector.

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.
• Develop transient expression vectors producing CAS9 and gRNA, perform RNP transfection, and virus-induced genome editing (VIGE) to achieve foreign-DNA-free edited events.
• Perform molecular characterization of transgenic and genome-edited events using PCR, RT-qPCR, Southern blot, sequencing, and bioinformatics.
• Conduct phenotyping through artificial infection of plants using local pathogen strains in the 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.