THE ORGANIZATION

The Alliance of Bioversity International delivers research-based solutions that harness agricultural biodiversity and sustainably transform food systems to improve people’s lives. Alliance solutions address the global crises of malnutrition, climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation.

The Alliance works with local, national and multinational partners across Latin America and the Caribbean, Asia and Africa, and with the public and private sectors. The Alliance is part of CGIAR, a global research partnership for a food-secure future, dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing food and nutrition security, and improving natural resources and ecosystem services.

About the position

The Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) is looking for a qualified Research Associate  ;Molecular Biology Laboratory Technician to support active projects related to the use of molecular biology technology to assist in bean variety improvement. The use of genomic selection in plant science has been well established. Specifically, segregation and selection of desirable plant traits for advancement. The Alliance is working to establish an active molecular biology laboratory to assist in creation of new bean varieties that are more resilient, productive, and nutritious. The laboratory technician will provide specialized laboratory and greenhouse research assistance to promote the breeding research activities. The incumbent will be required to proficiently handle standard laboratory and greenhouse procedures and maintain a safe work environment.

Key duties & Responsibilities

• Receive, label, and analyze samples (plants, seeds, and plant tissues etc.)
• Assist in processing samples for laboratory tests/procedures according to standard operating procedures, checks for proper samples identification.
• Perform special processing procedure to specimens including DNA extractions.
• Support in recording all data and results in specified forms (paper and electronic) with accuracy and responsibility.
• Organize and store all chemicals substances, fluids, and compressed gases according to safety instructions.
• Assist in preparing solutions, reagents, equipment, apparatus, accessories and other supplies needed at the laboratory.
• Monitor reagents for expiration dates, preparation dates, inventory, and prepare as needed.
• Clean, sterilize, calibrate, and maintain equipment and apparatus used in all tests and analysis.
• Perform quality control and quality assurance tests and maintain quality control procedures in the laboratory.
• Ensure that all safety guidelines are always followed strictly and maintain a clean and orderly environment.
• Support in providing laboratory training to other personnel on proper laboratory methods, procedures, and techniques.
• Participate in Field breeding activities.
• Perform any other related duties as required.

Requirements

• Ongoing master’s studies level in laboratory technology, biology, chemistry, biotechnology, or relevant fields.
• Proven experience working as a molecular laboratory technician or relevant position will be an added advantage.
• Experience in applying modern laboratory procedures, methods and computer linked equipment.
• Experience in operating electrical and nonelectrical laboratory equipment and potentially dangerous substances (flammable liquids, infectious bacteria, biohazards etc.)
• In depth knowledge of preventative measures and laboratory best practices.
• Working knowledge of MS Office (especially Excel) and database systems.
• High attention to detail and excellent analytical skills.
• Good report and journal writing skill is required.
• Must be able to work independently with minimum supervision, but also participate as a team member in accomplishment of duties.
• Excellent interpersonal with advanced written and verbal communication skills in English and Kiswahili language.
• Strong ability to co-ordinate, prioritize and organize workload; take initiative and work under pressure.
• Ability to work in a multi-cultural environment.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks under pressure and meeting deadlines.
• Ability to maintain the highest level of integrity and standards of ethics, confidentiality, and professionalism.
• Professional integrity and a high performing team player who can work autonomously, remains accountable and contributes to a positive and cohesive team environment.
• Commitment to Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT’s mission and core values.

Terms of employment

This position is a nationally recruited position based in Arusha, Tanzania.  The initial contract will be for one year subject to a probation period of three months and is renewable depending on performance and availability of resources.

This position is graded at BG06 level, with a minimum basic salary of 2,608,634 Tanzania Shillings in a scale of BG01 to BG14 (BG14 being the highest level according to the Alliance job classification framework policy). We offer a competitive salary and excellent benefits including but not limited to insurance, retirement plan, staff training and development, paid time off and flexible working arrangements.

The Alliance Bioversity-CIAT is committed to fair, safe, and inclusive workplaces. We believe that diversity powers our innovation, contributes to our excellence, and is critical for our mission. Recruiting and mentoring staff to create an inclusive organization that reflects our global character is a priority. We encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability statuses, sexual orientations, marital status, and gender identities. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

Applications

Applicants are invited to visit https://alliancebioversityciat.org/careers to get full details of the position and to submit their applications. Applications MUST include reference REF: 103451 –Research Associate the position applied for. Cover letter and CV should be saved as one document using the candidate’s last name, first name for ease of sorting. The Alliance collects and process personal data in accordance with applicable data protection laws.

Applications closing date: 1^st March 2024

Please note that email applications will not be considered.

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

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