Research Assistant - Livestock Genetics at International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI)

Job description

The position

The Centre for Tropical Livestock Genetics and Health (CTLGH) is an alliance between the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), the Roslin Institute at the University of Edinburgh and Scotland's Rural College (SRUC). It was established to improve the productivity and health of livestock in sub-Saharan Africa using the latest genetic and genomics technologies and related innovations.

The main aim of this post is to contribute to the establishment of reliable high-resolution disease phenotypes, which are key to downstream genetic analysis performed within the CTLGH. The work will include preparation of next generation sequencing libraries, which will allow the unambiguous detection of haemopathogens and nematodes up to the species level. In addition, other diagnostic assay such as faecal egg counts, coprocultures and ELISA’s will be performed. The research-assistant will be expected to contribute to the overall running of the recently renovated CTLGH lab.

Key Responsibilities

• Processing of livestock samples for genetic analysis and diagnostics
• Prepare NGS sequencing libraries
• Perform diagnostic assays on livestock samples (eg. PCR, ELISA’s, faecal egg counts)
• Keep immaculate records of work performed and of samples in storage
• Contribute to the overall running of the lab (eg. Procurement, stocking off standard lab consumables, making buffers)
• Contribute to paperwork required related to the work (eg Risk assessments and shipping of samples)

Requirements

• Degree in Biological sciences (or other relevant degree)
• Master of Science is desirable
• At least 2 years relevant experience
• Good understanding of and experience with standard molecular biology techniques
• Experience with a range of diagnostic techniques (Such as ELISA, worm egg counts)
• A pro-active individual, who is organized and a good communicator
• Ability to focus and handle large number of samples at the same time.

Terms of Appointment

These are Nationally Recruited Staff (NRS) position; based at Nairobi, Kenya and open to Kenyan nationals only. The position is on a 1-year contract, renewable subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funding.

Job Level

This position is job level 2B, ILRI offers a competitive salary and benefits package which includes; pension, medical and other insurances for ILRI’s Nationally Recruited Staff.

How to apply: Applicants should send a cover letter and CV expressing their interest in the position, what they can bring to the job and the names and addresses (including telephone and email) of three referees who are knowledgeable about the candidate’s professional qualifications and work experience to the Director, People and Organizational Development by clicking on the "Apply Now" tab above before 13 April 2018. The position title and reference number REF: RA/ CTLGH /03/18 should be clearly marked on the subject line of the cover letter.

ILRI does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview meeting, processing or training). ILRI also does not concern itself with information on applicants' bank accounts.