Research Assistant – Wheat Breeding-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: 202569
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.
Research Assistant – Wheat Breeding-CIMMYT
Overview
To provide support to the Scientist in trial preparation, planting, field management, data collection, and organization. The position holder will serve as a key contact for CIMMYT at the KALRO Njoro office and will oversee daily activities in the CIMMYT research section.Duties and responsibilities
1.Overseeing field experiments.
- Prepare field experiments (trials and nurseries), including trial designs and seed preparation using EBS according to the breeder’s instructions.
- Prepare field maps and planting plans for field trials
- Coordinate shipment of field trials to various testing locations within the region for timely planting, and retrieval of trial data from our collaborators (both NARS and seed companies) for timely consolidation and analysis.
- Implement mechanization and digitization in the CIMMYT-Eastern Africa breeding program.
2.Seed processing and storage.
- Lead seed processing and shipment with different partners, both internally and externally.
- Manage cold storage facilities by consolidating germplasm inventories and developing SOPs.
- In consultation with scientists, identify germplasm that requires seed increase.
3.Data management.
- Lead data collection and entry from field trials.
- Examine data for accuracy before analysis.
- Implement electronic data capture tools (e.g., Fieldbook app) across field sites.
- Prepare historical datasets for proper curation and record-keeping.
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 supervision of casual labor.
- Supervision of casual laborers during field activities.
- Contribute to training activities and
capacity building as requested by the research team.
Requirements
- Minimum of two (bachelor’s degree) years or one (master’s degree) year of experience in plant breeding or related field research
- Proven ability to design, establish, and manage field experiments, including data recording and handling.
- Experience in fieldwork supervision and trial management; prior exposure to plant breeding programs is preferred.
- Familiarity with standard work procedures, with the capacity to adapt under close supervision and structured reporting.
- Willingness to undertake on-the-job training (minimum six months).
Education, knowledge and experience
•Minimum of two (bachelor’s degree) years or one (master’s degree) year of experience in plant breeding or related field research•Proven ability to design, establish, and manage field experiments, including data recording and handling.
•Experience in fieldwork supervision and trial management; prior exposure to plant breeding programs is preferred.
•Familiarity with standard work procedures, with the capacity to adapt under close supervision and structured reporting.
•Willingness to undertake on-the-job training (minimum six months).
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 2025We will acknowledge all applications, but will contact only short-listed candidates.
Applications from non-qualifying applicants will most likely be discarded by the recruiting manager.