Research Assistant – Wheat rust pathology- CIMMYT

Kenya

  • Organization: CIFOR - Center for International Forestry Research
  • Location: Kenya
  • Grade: Administrative support - Administrative Services and Support - Generally no need for Higher Education
  • Occupational Groups:
    • Administrative support
    • Agriculture and Forestry
    • Scientist and Researcher
  • Closing Date: 2025-11-13


Reference number: 202568
Job status: In-progress
Job category: Local Position
Duty station: Njoro, Kenya
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CIFOR-ICRAF
The Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) and World Agroforestry (ICRAF) envision a more equitable world where trees in all landscapes, from drylands to the humid tropics, enhance the environment and well-being for all. CIFOR and ICRAF are non-profit science institutions that build and apply evidence to today’s most pressing challenges, including energy insecurity and the climate and biodiversity crises. Over a combined total of 65 years, we have built vast knowledge on forests and trees outside of forests in agricultural landscapes (agroforestry). Using a multidisciplinary approach, we seek to improve lives and to protect and restore ecosystems. Our work focuses on innovative research, partnering for impact, and engaging with stakeholders on policies and practices to benefit people and the planet. Founded in 1993 and 1978, CIFOR and ICRAF are members of CGIAR, a global research partnership for a food secure future dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing food and nutrition security, and improving natural resources.

CIFOR-ICRAF is looking for a

Research Assistant – Wheat rust pathology- CIMMYT


Overview

To provide support to the Scientist through trial preparation and planting, managing trials, data management, and reporting. The position holder will be a key contact person for CIMMYT in the KALRO Njoro office and will oversee day-to-day activities on the CIMMYT research section.

Duties and responsibilities

1.Conducting greenhouse and Field experiments on rust research.

  • Prepare greenhouse and field experiments (trials and nurseries), for seedling characterization and field resistance
  • Race purification
  • Spore multiplication and storage
  • Race characterization in the greenhouse
  • Screening S1 and S2 trials for seedling resistance to SR and YR.

2.Sentinel nurseries and trap nursery monitoring.

  • Working with partners to distribute sentinel nurseries annually
  • Planting trap nurseries and multiplication nurseries during the main and offseason.

3.Data management.

  • Data Collection
  • Lead data capture and input race characterization with guidance from scientists.
  • Examine data for accuracy before analysis.
  • Prepare historical data for curation.
  • Implement electronic data capture in all the field-testing locations using the EBS or other appropriate application to ensure quick turnaround.
  • Assist M.Sc. and Ph.D. students in data analysis.

4.Assist in drafting project progress reports.

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

5.Capacity building and COS supervision.

  • Provide training and backstopping services, especially for COS staff for greenhouse activities
  • Provide technical assistance to visiting scientists and students
  • Supervise contract and casual labor in data taking.


Requirements

  • Bachelor’s or master’s degree in plant pathology or related discipline.
  • Thorough knowledge of the field of work or specialized equipment.
  • Basic knowledge of administrative and/or operating protocols and procedures of the research support function.
  • Basic supervisory skills and experience.
  • Minimum of two years of experience in plant pathology or related field research
  • Requires good knowledge of theories, practices, and procedures within a discipline
  • The position holder will require a minimum of 6 months of on-the-job training.



Education, knowledge and experience

•Bachelor’s or master’s degree in plant pathology or related discipline.
•Thorough knowledge of the field of work or specialized equipment.
•Basic knowledge of administrative and/or operating protocols and procedures of the research support function.
•Basic supervisory skills and experience.
•Minimum of two years of experience in plant pathology or related field research
•Requires good knowledge of theories, practices, and procedures within a discipline
•The position holder will require a minimum of 6 months of on-the-job training.

Terms and conditions

•This is a Locally Recruited Staff (LRS) position and on competitive remuneration in local currency, commensurate with skills and experience.
•The appointment will be for two (2) years, including a six-month probationary period, with the possibility of extension contingent on performance, continued relevance of the position and available resources.
•The duty station will be in Kalro, Njoro, Kenya.

Application process

The application deadline is 13 Nov 2025
We will acknowledge all applications, but will contact only short-listed candidates.

We do our best to provide you the most accurate info, but closing dates may be wrong on our site. Please check on the recruiting organization's page for the exact info. Candidates are responsible for complying with deadlines and are encouraged to submit applications well ahead.
Before applying, please make sure that you have read the requirements for the position and that you qualify.
Applications from non-qualifying applicants will most likely be discarded by the recruiting manager.
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