Research Assistant

Job description

Research Assistant Jobs in Lusaka at Topseed Zambia Limited Topseed Zambia Limited is seeking a dedicated Research Assistant to join our Research & Development team based in Lusaka, Zambia. This role offers an excellent opportunity for professionals interested in agricultural research to contribute to innovative breeding and testing activities, supporting the advancement of high-quality seed production. If you are looking for research assistant jobs in Lusaka that involve hands-on fieldwork and impactful agricultural development, this position is ideal. About Topseed Zambia Limited Topseed Zambia Limited is a leading agro-business company specializing in the marketing and distribution of seeds and other agricultural products across Zambia. Our mission is to provide farmers with a diverse portfolio of superior crop seeds, including hybrid maize, sunflower, soya beans, dry beans, grain sorghum, wheat, and forage crops, to enhance agricultural productivity nationwide. Role Overview for Research Assistant Jobs in Lusaka Reporting directly to the Research Lead, the Research Assistant will support breeding and testing activities critical to maize breeding projects. This full-time role requires extensive fieldwork, including travel to various trial sites. Responsibilities encompass managing nurseries and field trials, soil and seed preparation, planting, thinning, insect control, irrigation, pollination, data collection, harvesting, and seed processing, all while ensuring strict adherence to company protocols and quality standards. Key Responsibilities Assist the Research Lead with daily research operations and field activities. Plan and improve nursery and field trial operations for both summer and winter seasons. Coordinate planting, pollination, data collection, harvesting, and seed processing tasks including drying, shelling, cleaning, packaging, and treatment. Utilize breeding software to maintain traceability of breeding materials at all times. Manage handheld data collection, data entry, and barcoding functions efficiently. Conduct biannual seed inventory, ensuring accurate labelling and updating as per Research Lead instructions. Implement new systems to improve genotype and seed lot traceability across nurseries and trials. Apply TOPSEED Quality Manual standards related to identification, quality control, storage, labelling, and packaging. Train, motivate, and supervise both permanent and seasonal labor to ensure compliance with research protocols. Promote a positive image of Topseed Zambia Limited and uphold confidentiality policies. Support site safety programs to maintain a secure work environment. Contribute to additional R&D projects as required. Qualifications and Experience Required: BSc or National Diploma in Agriculture or a related field. Fluency in English and/or other Zambian languages. Experience in maize seed production or research trials is advantageous. Desired: Experience in agricultural research or maize breeding environments. Basic knowledge of crop production, farming practices, and field research. Proficiency in IT tools such as MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Excellent planning, prioritization, and execution abilities. Ability to innovate and suggest improvements. Teamwork and effective cross-team communication skills. Working Conditions and Expectations Approximately 70–80% of work is field-based, involving exposure to sun, rain, and dust. Extended hours and overnight stays at off-site trial locations may be required during peak seasons. Living near trial sites during the growing season is expected to ensure effective project management. Performance Indicators Achieve high seed returns from all production nurseries. Maintain accuracy in planting and plot labelling. Complete field operations in a timely manner. Ensure high pollination success rates and zero seed mixing incidents. Pack nursery and trial kits cleanly and accurately. Demonstrate proficiency with IT tools and breeding software such as Fieldbook and CropStat. Keep detailed and accurate records for all maize breeding projects. Communicate effectively across all assigned projects. Meet targets, deadlines, and organizational goals consistently. Exhibit innovation and strong organizational skills. How to Apply Interested candidates for research assistant jobs in Lusaka are invited to submit their applications by 22nd May 2026. Please send your application to infor@topseedzambia.com.