About IRRI

Job Purpose

Under the minimal supervision of Scientist II, the Assistant Scientist will assist in the design of experiments, surveys, and other research studies according to genome editing-specific project goals and research objectives. He/she will manage the implementation of defined research activities, evaluate and validate experimental data, and contribute to manuscripts for reports/publications as well as presentations/posters for national and international conferences. He/she will also supervise, coach, and guide scholars, OJTs, researchers, and research technicians, and coordinate and prepare training sessions for a variety of people. Also, he/she will assist in reporting following the CGIAR template and standard.

This position will be based at the IRRI Headquarters, Los Baños, Philippines and may only be filled by permanent citizens of the Philippines.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Assist in designing experiments based on the research outline provided in the area of genome editing of rice for climate change adaptation and mitigation
• Contribute to the development of research proposals, including reviewing related literature and providing logistical support
• Exchange conceptual ideas with collaborating partners (national/international) and seek feedback.
• Coordinate with collaborating partners on their research requirements
• Verify suggested methodologies and establish parameters
• Select adequate research tools and equipment
• Assist in the identification of support staff and assign tasks/responsibilities
• Coordinate the required services and supplies for the experiments
• Assist in the monthly monitoring of the budget for services and supplies
• Manage the implementation of experiments related to the genome editing of rice for climate change adaptation and mitigation
• Provide assistance and guidelines/information to scholars and collaborators considering the implementation of experiment(s), including the logistics
• Assign, monitor, and evaluate research activities and tasks performed by researchers, research technicians, and contract workers; provide guidance when necessary
• Maintain smooth conduct of experiment(s) by troubleshooting and fostering a productive teamwork environment
• Develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Collaborate with lRRl’s genome editing team members in the execution of the molecular characterization and trait assessment of gene-edited rice lines and the generation of data to support the application for a Certificate of Non-Coverage from the JDC1, s2021.
• Coordinate with NARES researchers for conducting multi-location field trials and gene-editing line stewardship.
• Engage with collaborators from other centers
• Supervise the work of researchers, research technicians, and/or contract workers.
• Contribute to the professional development of researchers and research technicians.
• Assist students and trainees
• Assist in the conduct of molecular characterization, trait assessment, and generation of data to support the application for Certificate of Non-Coverage from the JDC1, s2021, and multi-location field trials of gene-edited rice lines
• Interpret data and contribute to the SOP, protocol, and manuscript writing
• Prepare and submit updated research outputs in a timely manner
• Proactively maintain a database or spreadsheet of experiments
• Assist in reporting following the CGIAR template and standard
• Draft training material using readily available published information (i.e. protocols, methodology)
• Act as a resource person for training courses and visitors

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree in Biology or in Agriculture or in Agricultural Biotechnology with a minimum 4 years of relevant work experience in related field
• Master of Science degree in Genetics or in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology and minimum 1 year of relevant work experience in Molecular biology

Skills Required

Mandatory

• Has proven technical proficiency in conducting research experiments
• Has strong oral and written communication skills
• Has strong analytical skills
• Has some experience with quality assurance
• Has some experience with research management
• Has excellent computer skills
• Is able to work independently and is a team player

Preferred

• Has some experience supervising or overseeing the work of staff
• Skilled in DNA analysis, plant phenotyping, experimental design, data analysis, writing project reports
• Some knowledge of stewardship of biotechnology-derived plant products

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.