Research Assistant – Wheat Breeding-CIMMYT at World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF)

Duties and responsibilities

Overseeing field experiments.

• Prepare field experiments (trials and nurseries), including trial designs and seed preparation using EBS according to the breeder’s instructions.
• Prepare field maps and planting plans for field trials
• Coordinate shipment of field trials to various testing locations within the region for timely planting, and retrieval of trial data from our collaborators (both NARS and seed companies) for timely consolidation and analysis.
• Implement mechanization and digitization in the CIMMYT-Eastern Africa breeding program.

 Seed processing and storage.

• Lead seed processing and shipment with different partners, both internally and externally.
• Manage cold storage facilities by consolidating germplasm inventories and developing SOPs.
• In consultation with scientists, identify germplasm that requires seed increase.

 Data management.

• Lead data collection and entry from field trials.
• Examine data for accuracy before analysis.
• Implement electronic data capture tools (e.g., Fieldbook app) across field sites.
• Prepare historical datasets for proper curation and record-keeping.

Assist in drafting project progress reports.

• Assist in preparing tables and figures from research results for project reports, publications, draft manuscripts, etc.

Capacity building and supervision of casual labor.

• Supervision of casual laborers during field activities.
• Contribute to training activities and capacity building as requested by the research team.

Requirements

• Minimum of two (bachelor’s degree) years or one (master’s degree) year of experience in plant breeding or related field research
• Proven ability to design, establish, and manage field experiments, including data recording and handling.
• Experience in fieldwork supervision and trial management; prior exposure to plant breeding programs is preferred.
• Familiarity with standard work procedures, with the capacity to adapt under close supervision and structured reporting.
• Willingness to undertake on-the-job training (minimum six months).