Research Assistant: Plant Science at DryGro

Job Details: 

DryGro is seeking an experienced Plant Science Research Assistant to support our work in plant research and production. This role will be an excellent fit for an individual who enjoys tackling challenging problems in field and laboratory work.  The Research Assistant will be based in Naivasha Kenya, but the DryGro team operates internationally. We are looking for somebody who can work effectively with a diverse, global team.

Key responsibilities:

• Assist in conducting experiments, including design, set-up, data collection, and basic data analysis
• Provide support in managing laboratory operations at a logistical level, including development of standard operating procedures, management of consumables stocks and procurement, drafting risk assessments and obtaining permits, under the supervision of the Regional Plant Scientist.
• Ensure observation of good laboratory practices, including drafting risk assessments and holding all laboratory users accountable for maintaining a safe work environment.
• Prepare laboratory chemical reagents and media.
• Carry out routine tasks such as sampling and sample testing, contribute to the development of laboratory protocols, conduct data analysis and interpretation.
• Assist in the analysis and reporting of test results to the technical team, management team, and customers as required.

Selection Criteria

• Bachelor’s degree in General Agriculture, Botany, Plant Breeding, Agronomy, or related field.
• At least one year’s experience working in plant/ crop research facility.
• Good understanding of crop production systems including emerging technologies such as hydroponics.
• Proven experience in designing and managing plant experiments.
• Ability to collect, compile and submit quality data on research experiments.
• Proven experience and skill in preparation and submission of project progress reports.
• Ability to establish and maintain good relationships with all the stakeholders of any given project.
• Advanced level in verbal and writing communication skills, especially in using technology to communicate with a diverse, international team.

Terms of Appointment:

This is a Nationally Recruited Staff (NRS) position based at DryGro Naivasha office. It is open to Kenyan nationals only. The position is on fixed term contract with initial three months probabation