Background: The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) invites applications for the internationally recruited position of Postdoctoral Research Fellow \u2013 Biotechnological Innovations for Red Palm Weevil Control.
The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is a not-for-profit institution that generates agricultural innovations to meet Africa\u2019s most pressing challenges of hunger, malnutrition, poverty, and natural resource degradation. Working with various partners across sub-Saharan Africa, we improve livelihoods, enhance food and nutrition security, increase employment, and preserve natural resource integrity. IITA is a member of CGIAR, a global agriculture research partnership for a food-secure future. Please visit http://www.iita.org/ for more information on IITA.
The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), as part of the Consortium for Red Palm Weevil Control (C4RPWC) - a global, multi-institutional program led by ICARDA- is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to contribute to innovative, science-driven solutions against the Red Palm Weevil (RPW). RPW (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus), one of the most destructive invasive pests worldwide, poses a grave threat to date, coconut, and oil palm cultivation. Since the 1980s, it has caused catastrophic economic losses, degraded ecosystems, and undermined the livelihoods of farming communities across the Middle East, North Africa, and beyond. With its rapidspread into Sub-Saharan Africa and its adaptability to multiple palm species, RPW jeopardizes food security, biodiversity, and industries valued at over $20-30 billion globally.
This postdoctoral position offers an opportunity to advance cutting-edge biotechnological innovations, such as RNA interference (RNAi) and gene editing, that will contribute to scalable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly solutions to protect palms, rural livelihoods, and ecosystems.
Position Responsibilities
The Post-Doctoral Fellow will be responsible for developing and executing biotechnological strategies, including RNAi and gene editing for controlling RPW, working closely with internal research teams, external partners, and stakeholders within the C4RPWC program. The successful candidate will report to the Lead of the Biotechnology Program at IITA. The tasks will include:
\u00b7 Design, conduct, and optimize laboratory and field experiments on RNA interference (RNAi)-based pest control strategies, including both direct applications (e.g., dsRNA nanoparticles, injections) and plant-expressed dsRNA systems.
\u00b7 Develop a transformation and gene editing system for date palm, African palm, and sugarcane.
\u00b7 Generate gene-edited events with enhanced resistance against RPW infestations.
\u00b7 Develop and validate molecular and genomic tools for monitoring efficacy, insect resistance, and environmental safety.
\u00b7 Collect, analyse, and interpret molecular, genetic, and ecological data related to RPW control interventions.
\u00b7 Conduct bioinformatic analyses of RPW genomes, transcriptomes, and gene targets relevant to RNAi and gene editing.
\u00b7 Collaborate with international, multi-disciplinary teams across C4RPWC partner institutions.
\u00b7 Provide technical guidance and training to graduate students, technicians, and national program partners in molecular entomology and biotechnology.
\u00b7 Contribute to building local capacity for biotechnology-based pest management in partner countries.
\u00b7 Support the coordination and monitoring of IITA\u2019s contributions to the RPW control program.
\u00b7 Prepare high-quality research outputs, including peer-reviewed publications and technical briefs.
\u00b7 Prepare progress reports, presentations, and knowledge-sharing materials for donors, partners, and stakeholders.
\u00b7 Engage in outreach and science communication to demonstrate program impact on livelihoods, ecosystems, and sustainable pest management.
\u00b7 Explore novel delivery platforms for biotechnological control agents with emphasis on scalability and field applicability.
\u00b7 Coordinate the regulatory compliance and stewardship for the project.
\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
Educational Qualifications
The candidate should have a Ph.D. in Plant Biotechnology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, or a related field with a focus on gene editing technologies. Experience in plant molecular biology, plant engineering, or plant biotechnology, with demonstrated experience in gene editing and RNAi.
\u00b7 Research Excellence:
\u00b7 Deep understanding of RNAi and gene editing and their 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 Writing Skills: Proven track record of publication in peer-reviewed journals.
Benefits
General information: The contract will be for an initial period of two years. IITA offers an internationally competitive remuneration package paid in US 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 Director, People and Culture. Please complete our online application form using this link: https://apply.workable.com/iita/#jobs
Closing Date: 10th October 2025
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.