Principal Plant Breeder (1 Post) at Kenya Seed Company Ltd

Ref KSC 2/12/22

Job Description
Terms of service: Permanent and pensionable.

Reporting to the Manager, Plant Breeding

• Duties and responsibilities of this position will include:
• Formulating research project proposals.
• Developing and release of seed varieties.
• Collecting, collation, analysis and interpretation of appropriate data from crop experiments.
• Evaluating germplasm for various seed varieties for resistance to main biotic stresses, grain yield and other desirable agronomic traits
• Maintenance and supply of breeders’ seeds for bulking.
• Maintaining germplasm inventory and ensure ideal storage conditions.
• Carrying out description of released varieties and other germplasm (DUS)
• Assist in development of inbred lines for yield and other agronomic attributes
• Participate in evaluating hybrids varieties in Preliminary, Advanced and National Performance Trials.
• Preparation of technical / scientific reports
• Prepare materials for check plot inspections

Minimum requirements

Requirements for Appointment.
For appointment to this grade, one must have:

• Bachelor Science degree in Botany, Agriculture, Seed Science or equivalent qualification from a recognized institution.
• Have a minimum of eight (8) years relevant work experience three (3) of which must have been in a supervisory role in comparable organization.
• Certificate in Management Course lasting not less than four (4) weeks from a recognized institution.
• Membership in good standing to a relevant professional body.
• Must have released at least one (1) variety
• Leadership skills.
• Excellent communication skills
• Good interpersonal skills
• Team player
• Working knowledge of computer applications.
• Must have valid driving license.
• Fulfill the requirements of Chapter Six of the Constitution