Reliefweb Jobs Nairobi-Research Technician II

About the role:

The successful implementation of the gene editing project relies on a consistent supply of tissue culture plants. The intricate nature of the research and strict project timelines require a dedicated tissue culture assistant to propagate and maintain plants under tissue culture conditions, ensuring that the quantities needed are available for molecular work at the different stages of the research.

The Technician will ensure that the quality standards of tissue culture materials are adhered to, positively contributing to the successful implementation of the research initiative.

The Research Technician will be based in Nairobi, Kenya, and will report to the Food Chemist-Post Doc.

Key Responsibilities:

• Tissue culture activities involving: Media preparation for invitro cultures, surface sterilization of plants, and introduction of in vitro plant materials.
• In vitro seed establishment for potatoes, planting and maintaining plant materials in the growth rooms.
• Isolation of protoplasts and regeneration of plants under appropriate media
• Maintenance of transgenic and non-transgenic lines in the growth rooms, and screening of transgenic plants in the glass house.
• Tuber seed production in the glass house.
• Recording of daily laboratory activities in the lab notebook.
• Ensure plant care in the growth chambers, screen house, and glasshouse.

What are we looking for?

• Diploma in Plant Tissue Culture, Science Laboratory Technical Training, or related qualification
• At Least 5 years of practical experience in plant tissue culture preferably with roots, tubers, or banana plants
• Experience in protoplast isolation, regeneration, and microscopy is an added advantage.
• Advanced level of MS Office, database work
• Advanced written and oral communication skills in English.
• Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills.
• Hardworking with the ability to handle multiple work activities effectively.
• Fluent in English and Kiswahili.

Why should you consider this opportunity?

• CIP is a global and reputable international organization that has a strong, state-of-the-art R&D background.
• CIP is dedicated to achieving food security, improved nutrition and well-being, and gender equality for poor people in root and tuber farming and food systems of the developing world.
• CIP is a member of the CGIAR, a global research partnership for a food-secure future dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing food and nutrition security, and improving natural resources.

What are we offering?

• Excellent working environment.
• Generous compensation package commensurate with experience.
• Work in an equal and diverse workplace.

What are the conditions?

The position is a Nationally Recruited Staff (NRS) position limited to Kenyan nationals and permanent residents only. The employment contract will be for 1 year (with a 3-month probation period) possibility of renewal, subject to the availability of funding.