The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) invites applications for the internationally recruited position of Post-Doctoral Fellow, Yam Gene Editing.
The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is a not-for-profit institution that generates agricultural innovations to improve livelihoods, enhance food and nutrition security, increase employment, preserve natural resource integrity, and enhance system resilience to biotic and abiotic threats and climate change to enable agriculture transformation in sub-Saharan Africa. IITA is a member of CGIAR, a global agriculture research partnership for food, nutrition, and income-secure future for all.
Yam (Dioscorea spp.) is a staple food crop in many regions, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where it plays a significant role in food security and income generation. Despite its importance, yam cultivation faces challenges such as high labor costs, declining soil fertility, and vulnerability to pests and diseases. While breeding efforts have improved disease and pest resistance and adaptability, progress in enhancing plant architecture for mechanized farming remains limited. Leveraging gene editing, this research aims to develop semi-dwarf yam varieties, reducing the need for staking and enabling mechanized cultivation. This innovation promises to increase yields, lower labor costs, and optimize land use, contributing to more sustainable and profitable yam farming, particularly in Africa.
The Post-Doctoral Fellow, Yam Gene Editing, will be responsible for developing and executing gene editing strategies to enhance key traits in Yam, working closely with internal research teams, external partners, and stakeholders. The successful candidate will report to the Lead of the Biotechnology Program.
Position Key Responsibilities:
\u00b7 Conduct research to develop gene-edited yam for optimized architecture.
\u00b7 Lead the optimization of protocols for enhancing gene-editing, transformation, and regeneration of yam.
\u00b7 Test various gene-editing tools for targeted gene-editing in yam.
\u00b7 Develop a transgene-free gene-editing system for yam.
\u00b7 Contribute to the identification and validation of gene targets responsible for the semi-dwarf traits.
\u00b7 Contribute to preparing gene-edited plasmid vectors for transformation into yam tissues.
\u00b7 Perform molecular characterization of gene-edited events to confirm successful edits.
\u00b7 Phenotyping of gene-edited yam events for desire trait.
\u00b7 Collaborate with breeders to integrate edited traits into elite yam varieties.
\u00b7 Maintain detailed records of experiments, gene editing events, and outcomes.
\u00b7 Analyze experimental data and present results in internal and external meetings.
\u00b7 Prepare technical reports, including progress updates, annual donor reports, and presentations for conferences.
\u00b7 Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and communicate outcomes.
\u00b7 Assist in developing and executing communication strategies to promote the project\u2019s goals and achievements to both scientific and non-scientific audiences.
\u00b7 Assist in developing presentations, brochures, and other promotional materials to support public relations and outreach activities related to yam gene editing.
\u00b7 Coordinate the regulatory compliance and stewardship for the Yam project.
\u00b7 Supervise and manage research staff for gene-editing of yam.
\u00b7 Collaborate with national and international research institutions to advance gene-editing research in yam.
\u00b7 Support the development of grant proposals to secure funding for further research in gene editing and manage research projects effectively.
\u00b7 Actively participate in monthly meetings, annual reviews, and planning meetings and contribute to strategic research planning.
\u00b7 Host visitors, donors, and collaborators providing lab tours and discussing the project\u2019s progress.
\u00b7 Adhere to institutional policies and perform additional tasks as required.
Requirements
The candidate should have a Ph.D. in Plant Biotechnology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, or a related field with a focus on gene editing technologies. The candidate should have at least two years experience in plant molecular biology, plant engineering or plant biotechnology, with demonstrated experience in gene editing.
Core Competencies
\u00b7 Research Excellence:
\u00b7 Deep understanding of gene editing and its application in crop improvement.
\u00b7 Proficiency in molecular techniques, including vector design, cloning, PCR, and sequencing.
\u00b7 Strong experience in plant tissue culture and genetic transformation.
\u00b7 Excellent data analysis and bioinformatics skills.
\u00b7 Innovation: Ability to develop novel approaches to genetic engineering and problem-solving.
\u00b7 Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams and external partners.
\u00b7 Communication: Skilled in disseminating research outcomes to scientific audiences.
\u00b7 Project Management: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage the project.
\u00b7 Proven track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals.
Duty Station: Nairobi, Kenya.
Benefits
The contract will be for an initial period of two years. IITA offers an internationally competitive remuneration package paid in U.S. Dollars.
Applications: Applications must include a cover letter which should address how the candidate\u2019s background/experience relates to the specific duties of the position applied for, curriculum vitae, and names and addresses of three professional referees (which must include either the Head of the applicant\u2019s current or previous organization or applicant\u2019s direct Supervisor/Superior at his/her present or former place of work). The application should be addressed to the Head, People and Culture. Please complete our online application form using this link: https://apply.workable.com/iita/#jobs
Closing Date: 18th October 2024
IITA is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse workforce, particularly welcoming applications from women.
While all applications will be acknowledged, please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.