Assistant Scientist - Molecular Plant Pathology and Bioinformatics

This role will facilitate the planning, designing, implementation of experiments related to trait discovery and targeted rice diseases. In particular, assist with the bioinformatics and analysis of genetic data.

The Assistant Scientist is expected to constantly communicate with internal and external project partners and collaborators to exchange conceptual ideas findings, present research findings through conferences and publications to effectively gather feedback and research-related requirements for the advancement of the project; supervise and guide scholars, researchers and technicians; prepare and provide training sessions as needed.

This position will be based at the IRRI Headquarters, Los Baños, Philippines and may only be filled by permanent citizens of the Philippines.

• Facilitate the planning, designing and implementation of experiments for the projects in the area of molecular plant pathology, genetics, breeding, genomics and bioinformatics
• Contribute to pathogen monitoring and genomics activities to drive the selection of resistance genes and QTLs
• Contribute to the development of research proposals including review of related literature, selection of adequate research tools and verification of suggested methodologies
• Manage the implementation of experiments/surveys and other research studies related to rice breeding with multiple disease resistance
• Handle plant and pathogen genomic sequences from different platforms (Nanopore, PacBio, Illumina)
• Supervise and lead the maintenance of accurate data recording and update database for efficient storage and retrieval of information
• Administer effective coordination and preparations of trainings by ensuring that the training materials, logistical arrangements, and resource persons are appropriate to the defined objectives
• Constantly communicate with internal and external project partners and collaborators to exchange conceptual ideas and to effectively gather feedback and research-related requirements for the advancement of the project
• Constantly monitor, evaluate, and provide recommendations to improve research activities/tasks performed by research technicians and contract workers in order to maintain smooth conduct of field and greenhouse experiments as well as to foster a productive working environment
• Coordinate with required IRRI services and supplies to ensure smooth implantation of experiments/surveys reports/publications as well as presentations/posters for national and international conferences
• Perform bioinformatic analysis of fungal and bacterial pathogen genomes
• Perform bioinformatic analysis of the data corresponding to disease resistance component in rice genotypes
• Genetic analysis, identification of new genes and QTLs for broad spectrum resistance and genetic improvement of the elite lines for resistance to important rice diseases
• Genomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomic analysis
• Use of bioinformatics tools to analyze rice and pathogen genome sequences

• Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture/Biology /Biochemistry and 4 years of relevant work experience in genomics and transcriptomics analysis; or
• Master of Science degree in Plant Pathology/Biochemistry/Molecular Biology/Bioinformatics and 1 year of relevant work experience in genomics and transcriptomics analysis

Mandatory

• Has proven technical proficiency in conducting research experiments related to molecular plant pathology
• Excellent in R and Python
• Has strong analytical skills using advanced statistical tools
• Has experience with quality assurance and research data management
• Highly committed to work and able to collaborate with partners
• Has strong oral and written communication skills
• Has strong presentation and computer skills
• Can work independently
• Has capability in leading a small research team
  

Preferred

• Has experience in using advanced bioinformatics tools in genome analysis

IRRI offers a highly extensive employee benefits package inclusive of globally-covered medical insurance, retirement plan, life and accident insurance and other allowances. Join our team and be part of our story!

Please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
This position will remain open until filled.