Research Technician II-Tissue Culture Technician at International Potato Center

About the role:

• The successful implementation of the gene editing project relies on a consistent supply of tissue culture plants. The intricate nature of the research and strict project timelines require a dedicated tissue culture assistant to propagate and maintain plants under tissue culture conditions, ensuring that the quantities needed are available for molecular work at the different stages of the research.
• The Technician will ensure that the quality standards of tissue culture materials are adhered to, positively contributing to the successful implementation of the research initiative.
• The Research Technician will be based in Nairobi, Kenya and will report to the Food Chemist-Post Doc.

Key Responsibilities:

• Tissue culture activities involving: Media preparation for in-vitro cultures, surface sterilization of plants, and introduction of in vitro plant materials.
• In vitro seed establishment for potatoes, planting and maintaining plant materials in the growth rooms.
• Isolation of protoplasts and regeneration of plants under appropriate media
• Maintenance of transgenic and non-transgenic lines in the growth rooms, and screening of transgenic plants in the glass house.
• Tuber seed production in the glass house.
• Recording of daily laboratory activities in the lab notebook.
• Ensure plant care in the growth chambers, screen house, and glasshouse. 

Requirements
What are we looking for?

• Diploma in Plant Tissue Culture, Science Laboratory Technical Training, or related qualification
• At Least 5 years of practical experience in plant tissue culture preferably with roots, tubers, or banana plants
• Experience in protoplast isolation, regeneration, and microscopy is an added advantage.
• Advanced level of MS Office, database work                                      
• Advanced written and oral communication skills in English.
• Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills. 
• Hard working with the ability to handle multiple work activities effectively.
• Fluent in English and Kiswahili.