The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) invites applications for the internationally recruited position of Post-Doctoral Fellow, Yam Gene Editing.

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is a not-for-profit institution that generates agricultural innovations to improve livelihoods, enhance food and nutrition security, increase employment, preserve natural resource integrity, and enhance system resilience to biotic and abiotic threats and climate change to enable agriculture transformation in sub-Saharan Africa. IITA is a member of CGIAR, a global agriculture research partnership for food, nutrition, and income-secure future for all.

Yam (Dioscorea spp.) is a staple food crop in many regions, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where it plays a significant role in food security and income generation. Despite its importance, yam cultivation faces challenges such as high labor costs, declining soil fertility, and vulnerability to pests and diseases. While breeding efforts have improved disease and pest resistance and adaptability, progress in enhancing plant architecture for mechanized farming remains limited. Leveraging gene editing, this research aims to develop semi-dwarf yam varieties, reducing the need for staking and enabling mechanized cultivation. This innovation promises to increase yields, lower labor costs, and optimize land use, contributing to more sustainable and profitable yam farming, particularly in Africa.

The Post-Doctoral Fellow, Yam Gene Editing, will be responsible for developing and executing gene editing strategies to enhance key traits in Yam, working closely with internal research teams, external partners, and stakeholders. The successful candidate will report to the Lead of the Biotechnology Program.

Position Key Responsibilities:

·      Conduct research to develop gene-edited yam for optimized architecture.

·      Lead the optimization of protocols for enhancing gene-editing, transformation, and regeneration of yam.

·      Test various gene-editing tools for targeted gene-editing in yam.

·      Develop a transgene-free gene-editing system for yam.

·      Contribute to the identification and validation of gene targets responsible for the semi-dwarf traits.

·      Contribute to preparing gene-edited plasmid vectors for transformation into yam tissues.

·      Perform molecular characterization of gene-edited events to confirm successful edits.

·      Phenotyping of gene-edited yam events for desire trait.

·      Collaborate with breeders to integrate edited traits into elite yam varieties.

·      Maintain detailed records of experiments, gene editing events, and outcomes.

·      Analyze experimental data and present results in internal and external meetings.

·      Prepare technical reports, including progress updates, annual donor reports, and presentations for conferences.

·      Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and communicate outcomes.

·      Assist in developing and executing communication strategies to promote the project’s goals and achievements to both scientific and non-scientific audiences.

·      Assist in developing presentations, brochures, and other promotional materials to support public relations and outreach activities related to yam gene editing.

·      Coordinate the regulatory compliance and stewardship for the Yam project.

·      Supervise and manage research staff for gene-editing of yam.

·      Collaborate with national and international research institutions to advance gene-editing research in yam.

·      Support the development of grant proposals to secure funding for further research in gene editing and manage research projects effectively.

·      Actively participate in monthly meetings, annual reviews, and planning meetings and contribute to strategic research planning.

·      Host visitors, donors, and collaborators providing lab tours and discussing the project’s progress.

·      Adhere to institutional policies and perform additional tasks as required.

Requirements

The candidate should have a Ph.D. in Plant Biotechnology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, or a related field with a focus on gene editing technologies. The candidate should have at least two years experience in plant molecular biology, plant engineering or plant biotechnology, with demonstrated experience in gene editing.

Core Competencies

·      Research Excellence:

· Deep understanding of gene editing and its application in crop improvement.

·      Proficiency in molecular techniques, including vector design, cloning, PCR, and sequencing.

·      Strong experience in plant tissue culture and genetic transformation.

·      Excellent data analysis and bioinformatics skills.

·      Innovation: Ability to develop novel approaches to genetic engineering and problem-solving.

·      Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams and external partners.

·      Communication: Skilled in disseminating research outcomes to scientific audiences.

·      Project Management: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage the project.

·      Proven track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals.

Duty Station: Nairobi, Kenya.

Benefits

The contract will be for an initial period of two years. IITA offers an internationally competitive remuneration package paid in U.S. Dollars.

Applications: Applications must include a cover letter which should address how the candidate’s background/experience relates to the specific duties of the position applied for, curriculum vitae, and names and addresses of three professional referees (which must include either the Head of the applicant’s current or previous organization or applicant’s direct Supervisor/Superior at his/her present or former place of work). The application should be addressed to the Head, People and Culture. Please complete our online application form using this link: https://apply.workable.com/iita/#jobs   

Closing Date: 18th October 2024

IITA is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse workforce, particularly welcoming applications from women.

While all applications will be acknowledged, please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.