Research Technician III - Nematology

Under the direct supervision of senior associate scientist, conduct research activities to support the implementation of activities related to research on the rice root-knot nematode. Main responsibilities include the timely production of the required amount of nematode inoculum and support in the establishment, maintenance and collection of data for the screening of genotypes for nematode resistance according to approved protocol.
 
This position will be based at the IRRI Headquarters, Los Baños, Philippines and may only be filled by permanent citizens of the Philippines. 

• Lead in the mass rearing of the rice root-knot nematode  (RKN) in the greenhouse and field including the sterilization of soil and maintenance of host plants
• Extract nematodes from root samples using mistifier
• Quantify the population density of RKN juveniles in nematode suspension
• Assess root galling according to the required rating system
• Quantify the population density of RKN juveniles in nematode suspension
• Collect data to screen the resistance of genotypes to RKN (e.g., population density of RKN in root samples, weight of root and shoot biomass, and yield and yield components)
• Assist in the establishment and maintenance of experiments on the screening of genotypes for resistance to RKN
• Operate and maintain the mistifier used for extracting nematodes
• Assist researchers in the documentation of procedures for mass rearing of nematodes and extraction of nematodes and training of scholars and other research technicians on the methods and techniques on nematology
• Sample RKN from the field
• Compile and collected data to researchers or scholars for analysis
• Coordinate with researchers and scholars in the production of nematode inoculum and conduct of experiments
• Coordinate with researchers ZES personnel and in the request of supplies and maintenance of plants for rearing of  RKN 
• Oversee contract workers in the performance of routine tasks, such collection, cutting and weighing of root samples, soil sterilization and maintenance of plants for RKN production
• Ensure the timely production of the required amount of nematode inoculum
• Conduct experiments and collect data according to the protocol and schedule approved by GRS, NRS, scholars and collaborators
• Ensure that facilities and equipment for the production of nematode inoculum are always  in operational condition and supplies are available as needed
• Perform relevant  tasks to be assigned by the supervisor from time to time

• High School graduate with at least 5 year experience or
• College Undergraduate with at least 3 years

Mandatory

• Mass rearing of rice root-knot nematode (RKN)
• Extraction of RKN from root samples using mistifier 
• Identification and counting of nematode juveniles in suspensions
• Scoring of RKN root galling
• Rice production

Preferred

• Good interpersonal skill 
• With professional driver’s license

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.