Technical Assistants at icipe - International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology

Overall purpose of the job

To support scientists and students in carrying out experiments and reporting on the same for all the African Fruit Fly Programme (AFFP) related activities.

Responsibilities

1. Conduct field, greenhouse and laboratory experiments as advised by scientists following icipe scientific procedures and guidelines.
2. Collect and record data for scientific research and maintain a proper data retrieval system.
3. Data entry of field, greenhouse and laboratory experiments using appropriate computer software.
4. Perform basic analyses of data and generate reports for both internal and external use.
5. Rear and maintain colonies of insects and natural enemies related to the African Fruit Fly Programme.
6. Assist in identifying and maintaining excellent contact/rapport with farming communities involved in the Fruit Fly Programme R&D work and assist in their training.
7. Ensure that experimental equipment and laboratories are clean and well maintained.
8. Monitor and facilitate in the procurement of lab supplies in a timely manner and maintain an inventory of supplies and equipment at all times.
9. Participate in the training of interns and students on attachment.
10. Assist in driving AFFP staff whenever required.
11. Supervise junior technical staff and assist them to overcome work bottlenecks that they may encounter, and report on the same to supervisors in timely manner.
12. Undertake any other duties assigned by the supervisor.

Key Responsibilities

• With the approval of the supervisor, he/she will be responsible for making timely decisions relevant for his/ her job functions.
• Supervise temporary staff and casual workers assigned to him/her.
• Responsible for financial management related to determining payment for casuals and field and travel advances he/she is provided, with honesty and integrity.
• May be acknowledged in scientific publications depending on the effort and input provided.
• Identify and maintain excellent contact/rapport with farming communities involved in Programme R&D work.

Requirements/Qualifications

• Higher diploma in entomology or zoology.
• Experience in handling and working with insects and their natural enemies is desirable, but not mandatory.
• Candidates with working experience in a busy research laboratory with extensive fieldwork related to crop pests and parasitoids will have an added advantage.
• Possession of a valid driving licence and proven accident free driving is an added advantage.
• Must be computer literate.

Core Competencies

• Proven track record of writing scientific and technical reports.

Other desirable attributes

• Must be self-motivated and able to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Fast thinking and able to solve day-to-day research challenges in a practical manner.
• Maintains frequent contact with scientists and other technical staff for exchange of information.
• A team player with ability to maintain harmonious working relationship in a multi-cultural and multi-racial environment.

Reporting

This position reports to the scientists.

The position is available immediately.