Research Associate, Field & Lab Agronomy & Data

CIMMYT; Estado de México; On-site; MXN 350,000 - 550,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Year-end bonus

Vacation premium

Life and medical insurance

Supermarket coupons

Savings fund

Job summary

CIMMYT seeks a Research Associate roster candidate to support field, laboratory, and data-driven CIMMYT research across maize, wheat, and related crops. You will work under supervision on entry-level tasks and advance to independent roles, contributing to scientific outputs and donor reporting.

The role involves coordinating with teams, managing data, and following strict SOPs to ensure quality and safety in all activities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Plant Science, Agronomy, Soil Science, Plant Pathology, Plant Breeding, Agricultural Engineering or related disciplines.
• Master's degree preferred or required for Research Associate and Senior Research Associate positions, depending on the specialization.
• Minimum 3 years of relevant research experience at entry level, typically 4–5 years at mid-tier and 8+ years at Senior Research Associate level.
• Senior-level roles require demonstrated ability to independently manage research activities, supervise research staff and contribute to scientific publications or technical research outputs.
• Strong research, data management, analytical and technical skills relevant to the assigned discipline.

Responsibilities

• Set up, manage and monitor field trials, nurseries and laboratory experiments following CIMMYT research protocols and quality standards.
• Design and implement research methodologies and field or laboratory measurement techniques, including specialized equipment.
• Maintain and operate research equipment and materials, including germplasm, pathogen cultures and soil-testing kits.
• Support or lead household, farm and market surveys, interviews, focus groups and other primary data collection activities.
• Collect, manage and analyze research data, including database management, statistical analysis and preparation of research progress reports.
• Coordinate on-farm research with partners, farmers and project teams, including stakeholder meetings, field days and collaboration with research institutions.
• Train, guide and supervise field or laboratory staff, research partners and students, with increasing responsibility at senior levels.
• Contribute to technical reports, scientific manuscripts and donor reporting, including lead or co-authorship of publications at senior levels.
• Manage research assets, inventories and supplies, and support timely procurement and project implementation.
• Ensure compliance with applicable standard operating procedures (SOPs), research quality standards and occupational health and safety requirements.

Skills

Research skills

Data management

Analytical skills

Team supervision

Education

Bachelor's degree in Plant Science/related field

Master's degree (preferred or required for certain roles)

Job description

CIMMYT seeks a Research Associate roster candidate to support field, laboratory, and data-driven CIMMYT research across maize, wheat, and related crops. You will work under supervision on entry-level tasks and advance to independent roles, contributing to scientific outputs and donor reporting.

The role involves coordinating with teams, managing data, and following strict SOPs to ensure quality and safety in all activities.