Post-Doctoral Fellow, Yam Gene Editing at International Institute of Tropical Agriculture

The Post-Doctoral Fellow, Yam Gene Editing, will be responsible for developing and executing gene editing strategies to enhance key traits in Yam, working closely with internal research teams, external partners, and stakeholders. The successful candidate will report to the Lead of the Biotechnology Program.

Position Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct research to develop gene-edited yam for optimized architecture. 
• Lead the optimization of protocols for enhancing gene-editing, transformation, and regeneration of yam.
• Test various gene-editing tools for targeted gene-editing in yam.
• Develop a transgene-free gene-editing system for yam.
• Contribute to the identification and validation of gene targets responsible for the semi-dwarf traits.
• Contribute to preparing gene-edited plasmid vectors for transformation into yam tissues.
• Perform molecular characterization of gene-edited events to confirm successful edits.
• Phenotyping of gene-edited yam events for desire trait.
• Collaborate with breeders to integrate edited traits into elite yam varieties.
• Maintain detailed records of experiments, gene editing events, and outcomes.
• Analyze experimental data and present results in internal and external meetings.
• Prepare technical reports, including progress updates, annual donor reports, and presentations for conferences.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and communicate outcomes.
• Assist in developing and executing communication strategies to promote the project’s goals and achievements to both scientific and non-scientific audiences.
• Assist in developing presentations, brochures, and other promotional materials to support public relations and outreach activities related to yam gene editing.
• Coordinate the regulatory compliance and stewardship for the Yam project.
• Supervise and manage research staff for gene-editing of yam.
• Collaborate with national and international research institutions to advance gene-editing research in yam.
• Support the development of grant proposals to secure funding for further research in gene editing and manage research projects effectively.
• Actively participate in monthly meetings, annual reviews, and planning meetings and contribute to strategic research planning.
• Host visitors, donors, and collaborators providing lab tours and discussing the project’s progress.
• Adhere to institutional policies and perform additional tasks as required.

Requirements

• The candidate should have a Ph.D. in Plant Biotechnology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, or a related field with a focus on gene editing technologies. The candidate should have at least two years experience in plant molecular biology, plant engineering or plant biotechnology, with demonstrated experience in gene editing.

Core Competencies

• Research Excellence:
• Deep understanding of gene editing and its application in crop improvement.
• Proficiency in molecular techniques, including vector design, cloning, PCR, and sequencing.
• Strong experience in plant tissue culture and genetic transformation.
• Excellent data analysis and bioinformatics skills.
• Innovation: Ability to develop novel approaches to genetic engineering and problem-solving.
• Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams and external partners.
• Communication: Skilled in disseminating research outcomes to scientific audiences.
• Project Management: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage the project.
• Proven track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Duty Station: Nairobi, Kenya.