The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) seeks to recruit a Research Associate on behalf of International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) to support the molecular characterization of gene-edited plants, including banana and yam.

ILRI works to improve food and nutritional security and reduce poverty in developing countries through research for efficient, safe and sustainable use of livestock. It is the only one of 15 CGIAR research centres dedicated entirely to animal agriculture research for the developing world. Co-hosted by Kenya and Ethiopia, it has regional or country offices and projects in East, South and Southeast Asia as well as Central, East, Southern and West Africa. www.ilri.org

ILRI hosts the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Nairobi. IITA (www.iita.org) with its headquarters in Ibadan, Nigeria, works with partners throughout Africa and beyond to reduce producer and consumer risks, enhance crop quality and productivity, and generate wealth from agriculture.

Key Responsibilities

The position focuses on performing genomic DNA extractions, PCR, Southern blotting, qRT-PCR, sequencing, mutation detection, and maintaining bacterial cultures. The successful candidate will work closely with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and contribute to ongoing research in plant genome editing and trait enhancement.

• Perform genomic DNA extraction from various transgenic and gene edited events of banana, yam or any other crops for molecular analysis.
• Conduct PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) and qRT-PCR (quantitative Real-Time PCR) to assess gene expression and mutation verification.
• Perform mutation detection assays, including T7 endonuclease and band-shift analysis.
• Carry out Southern blot analysis for gene copy number determination and transgene integration.
• Sequence analysis for detection and validation of gene edits using techniques such as Sanger or next-generation sequencing.
• Maintain and propagate bacterial cultures for plasmid DNA preparations.
• Prepare media and assist in sub-culturing the plants. Assist in the maintenance of gene-edited plant lines in the lab and greenhouse
• Ensure accurate data collection, analysis, and record-keeping for experimental results – record and analyse data
• Assist in preparing reports, presentations, and manuscripts related to the research findings.
• Collaborate with other team members and provide technical support in molecular techniques.
• Perform any other duty assigned

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, Biotechnology, Genetics, or a related field with 1 year of experience or Diploma in relevant field with 3 yrs experience
• Relevant professional certification
• Hands-on experience with molecular techniques such as DNA extraction, PCR, qRT-PCR, and sequencing.
• Familiarity with Southern blotting and mutation detection assays is a plus.
• Ability to maintain detailed lab records and follow protocols with precision.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for working in a collaborative research environment.

Post location: The position will be based in Nairobi, Kenya