Senior Scientist (Microbiologist) at icipe - African Insect Science for Food and Health

Overall purpose of the job

• Across icipe’s four Themes (Plant, Environmental, Human and Animal Health), the Centre is increasingly conducting research related to microbiology. Research areas include identification, diversity assessment and functionality of soil microbiomes in cropping systems and their impacts on soil health (Plant Health Theme); applied bioprospecting of beneficial microbes, and microbial safety of edible insect protein products and frass fertilizers (Environmental Health Theme); and endosymbionts to mitigate vector fitness (Animal and Human Health). Across the Themes, the focus has also been on the development of microbial biopesticides.
• The purpose of the position is to provide core microbiology expertise to icipe’s research agenda and present new avenues of research related to microbiology. Reporting to the Head of Plant Health Theme, the incumbent will be part of a multidisciplinary team in collaboration with icipe’s other scientists. It is expected that the job holder will develop a vibrant portfolio of research aligned with icipe’s vision and strategy.

Specific Duties:

•  A research focus on soil/rhizosphere/plant microbiomes in cropping systems and their impacts on soil health.
•  Establish a research agenda on other areas in microbiology such as microbiomes including:
  • Characterization of microbiomes of pests; animal, human and plant disease vectors;
  • Insects for food, feed and other uses.
  • Innovations in mass production and formulation of diverse beneficial microbes.
  • Unravelling unique modes of action of microbes (e.g., induced systemic resistance; microbial metabolites as pest control products, addressing antimicrobial resistance).
•  Provide microbiology expertise to other researchers during project development and implementation.
•  Build the capacity of national institutions through the identification and mentoring of projectsupported postdoctoral fellows and graduate students.
•  Contribute to fundraising and develop synergies across icipe’s projects to maximize project impacts.
•  Publish research outcomes in peer-reviewed journals.
•  Effectively communicate research results to stakeholders through presentations, media and other outreach materials.

Requirements/Qualifications

•  PhD degree in Microbiology from a reputable university, and postdoctoral training from a highly reputed laboratory.
•  Ten (10) years of experience gained at a senior level in either a research organisation or a university.
•  Strong practical knowledge of using advanced microbial technologies such as genomics and proteomics, fluorescence microscopy, among others.
•  Strong proficiency in the use of statistical tools related to microbiology (eDNA, microbial diagnostics, phylogenetics, among others).
•  Proven record of writing successful proposals for large grants.
•  Proven record of managing large resources, both financial and human, in an international research environment.
•  Experience in capacity building through supervision and mentorship of MSc and PhD students.
•  Excellent communication skills.
•  Proven record of exemplary scientific leadership qualities.
•  High degree of organisation, adaptability, and prioritisation.
•  Experience or demonstrated interest in working with farmers, preferably in Africa is an added advantage.

Other desirable attributes

•  Leads experimental designs and research protocols, and advanced data analysis.
•  Supervises technical staff, postdoctoral scientists, junior scientists, students.
•  Responsible for project management, including budgeting.
•  At least 3 publications/year in high-quality peer-reviewed journals.
•  Excellent publication track record with at least 30 publications.
•  Strong engagement in resource mobilization.
•  Strong engagement with partners for project delivery; external representation for meetings, conferences.

Reporting
This position reports to the Head of Plant Health Theme