Research Associate – LEG4DEV Molecular Biology Technical Officer

Job description

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is a non-profit institution that generates agricultural innovations to meet Africa’s most pressing challenges of hunger, malnutrition, poverty, and natural resource degradation. Working with various partners across sub-Saharan Africa, we improve livelihoods, enhance food and nutrition security, increase employment, and preserve natural resource integrity. IITA is a member of CGIAR, a global agriculture research partnership for a food-secure future. For more information, please visit www.iita.org.

IITA is seeking to employ the services of fully qualified and experienced Zambian nationals to fill the following positions at its Lusaka Station:

RESEARCH ASSOCIATE – LEG4DEV Molecular biology Technical Officer – REF NO: SARAH/RA/06/25

Overall Responsibility: To develop and implement protocols for collection of samples and lab-based molecular processing of crop and soil samples from field trials into DNA, protein, lipid, metabolites and any other biochemical samples of sufficient quality for genetic, genomic, biochemical and metabolomic analyses.

Key responsibilities:

To support the development of an IITA-University of Galway developed molecular preparatory lab in IITA Zambia for high-throughout extraction, storage and analysis (including through sending samples to external labs/service providers) of crop and soil samples from field trials.
To develop standard operating protocols (SOPs) for the routine work of the molecular preparatory lab, to ensure the maintenance, efficiency and functioning of all elements of the lab’s workflows, equipment and protocols.
To work with University of Galway and IITA scientists on the development of a series of protocols / workflows that allow for robust sampling of plant, food and soil samples from field trials, the maintenance of their biological integrity/identity during transport and storage, and their efficient processing into samples of sufficient quality for advanced analytical techniques (e.g. genomics, metabolomics).
Based on guidance from University of Galway and IITA scientists, to engage in sampling, processing of samples, analysis of samples and analysis of data, to support the generation of high quality research data from crop field trials or samples from farmers fields, foodstuffs, markets or supply chains.
To work with University of Galway and IITA scientists to prepare research papers and reports based on the analysis of crop and soil samples in the laboratory.
To curate and archive all data generated from GPS-tagged samples, and where possible the storage of the samples so that they can be used for further analysis, where necessary.
Work with IITA and the University of Galway partners on generation of publication quality study designs, data collection/generation, data visualisation (Figures/Tables) and drafting of research manuscripts for high impact multi-author journal publications from the research conducted within the LEG4DEV project.
Computationally adept including with programming experience in R and Python, and willingness to implement electronic lab notebooks for research planning, recording and archiving.
Perform any other duties as assigned by the Supervisors.

Qualifications and Experience

A degree and a master’s degree in molecular biology (e.g. molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, genomics or equivalent) from a recognized university, ideally with a laboratory-based focus on crop plants or crop systems.

Core Competencies

Excellent molecular biology lab skills and theoretical knowledge of plant molecular genetics and biochemistry, along with understanding of mandate crops and cropping systems of IITA.
Ideally Master’s degree level, with degree of relevance to molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, genomics or equivalent, ideally with a focus on crop plants or crop systems.
At least 5 years experience of working in a molecular biology laboratory context, with excellent understanding of equipment and protocols, including health and safety, and efficient keeping of lab records.
Proficiency in using relevant data analytical software, databases, internet-based tools, and other electronic communication tools.
Fluency in oral and written English.
Excellent writing and drafting skills
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

General information: The contract will be for an initial period of three (3) years. Renewal is dependent on the performance and availability of funds.

HOW TO APPLY: Interested applicants should forward their detailed curriculum vitae and covering letter as One Document by email to IITA-Zambia@cgiar.org no later than 9th June 2025. The application should be addressed to the People & Culture Officer.

IITA is an equal opportunity employer and particularly welcomes applications from women candidates.

Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted