Research Technician - ICRISAT at World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF)

Duties and responsibilities

• Document demand for trials seed production as guided by scientists and coordinate the seed production.
• Maintain seed inventory and supervise short term trial seed storage.
• Design and pack trials under the direction of a scientist.
• Establish trials in the designated testing sites
• Ensure trials and demonstrations are established on time and planted according to trial design.
• Ensure trials are well managed for quality data.
• Ensure the accuracy of data entry and consolidation for analysis by the Scientist for informed decision-making.
• Learn and operate the Breeding Management System (BMS) in order to manage routine operations, data upload, data curation, cleaning and preliminary analysis.
• Implement timely digital data capture using the relevant tools and software
• Manage a team of casual laborers involved in planting weeding, harvesting and trial processing, seed processing, see inventory, trial packaging, trial distribution.
• Ensure the casual team receives the necessary training to conduct their tasks.
• Ensure safety and hygiene standards are adhered to and well managed.
• Assist in training partners on a need basis and coordinate with the supervisor.
• Manage printing of packets, labels, tags, and seed inventory.
• Participate in exhibitions, demonstrations, and field days.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science in Agriculture or a related field
• At least 2 years of experience in a research institution and an understanding of plant breeding
• Experience in a research environment, specifically in field layout, data analysis, and good crop husbandry practices
• Sound interpersonal and problem-solving skills
• Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as in a team setting.
• Candidates with less experience but proven ability to deliver may be considered
• Preferably having experience of working in multi-cultural and interdisciplinary teams.
• Experience in an international organization environment will be an added advantage
• Practical experience in field experimental work
• Ability to prioritize and organize work efficiently and independently
• Ability to meet deadlines and work under pressure with minimal supervision
• Good interpersonal skills, integrity, honesty and self-motivation
• Computer literacy in MS Office.
• Fluency in English is an added advantage.