The International Potato Center (CIP) is seeking an Advanced Molecular Breeder (postdoctoral position) to be part of a multidisciplinary team working on a new project aiming at the development of genomic tools for sweetpotato improvement (GTSPI) using a combination of genomics, molecular genetics, bioinformatics and plant breeding.
The Center:CIP is a not-for-profit international agricultural research-for-development organization with a focus on potato, sweetpotato, and Andean roots and tubers. Its vision is of roots and tubers improving the lives of the poor. CIP is dedicated to achieving food security, improved well-being, and gender equity for poor people in root and tuber farming and food systems of the developing world. CIP works with partners to contribute high quality science, technology, and capacity strengthening for sustainable science-based solutions. CIP is headquartered in Lima, Peru, with staff and activities in over 30 locations across Asia, Africa, and Latin America. CIP is a member of the Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research, a network of 15 research centers mostly located in the developing world and supported by more than 50 donor members.The position: This post-doc level position will be based at the CIP regional office in Nairobi Kenya. Technical support platform will be available at the Biosciences for east and central Africa hub (BecA / ILRI) in Nairobi Kenya. This position will report to the Biotechnology and Genetics Senior Scientist based at the same location. The primary objective of this position is to enhance the use genomics-assisted breeding techniques to accelerate and improve sweetpotato breeding in sub-Saharan Africa. Other duties may be assigned. The position is expected to contribute to various strategic objectives and programs.
Duties and Accountabilities:
Contribute to the development and testing of genomics tools for sweetpotato crop improvement.
Assist in developing experiments in view of future application of genomics-assisted breeding in sweetpotato.
Establish links between the GTSI project teams and a further range of African scientists and programs in advanced genomics and developing countries laboratories.
Coordinate short term training, outreach activities and annual workshops.
Build capacities and facilitate technology transfer and adoption by sweetpotato breeders.
Publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals and attend relevant scientific conferences.
Selection criteria:
PhD in genetics, breeding, or applied genomics.
Ability to use sequencing data, DNA markers and statistics
Interests in genomics capacity development in SSA
Experience in in vitroculture.
Experience/knowledge of phenotyping in greenhouse and field.
Excellent organizational skills for networking across countries and continents.
Excellent interpersonal and team work skills to interact with multi-disciplinary teams.
Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
Demonstrated project management skills.
Conditions:Employment contract will be for a three-year term (with three months probation period) with the possibility of renewal,subject to availability of funding. The salary will be internationally competitive, paid in US dollars, and commensurate with experience.
CIP prides itself on its collegial and supportive working environment, which allows space for personal and professional growth.
Learn more about CIP by accessing our web site at http://www.cipotato.org.
CIP is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified women and professionals from developing countries are particularly encouraged to apply
HOW TO APPLY:
Applications:Applicants should apply by email, sending a letter of motivation, a full C.V., and the names and contact information of three references that are knowledgeable of the candidate’s professional qualifications and work experience to: CIP-Recruitment@cgiar.org. The reference name of the position should be clearly marked in the subject line of the email message. Screening of applications will begin onFebruary 19, 2015and will continue until the position is filled. All applications will be acknowledged, however only short listed candidates will be contacted.