The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) seeks to recruit a Scientist – Statistical Geneticist to be a research leader and key partner in the application of genetic and genomic principles to understand the genetic basis underpinning GHG in different livestock species in the range of production systems in SSA. It will involve the development of innovative phenotyping tools for GHG and various traits defining performance of animals and development genomic approaches relevant to LMIC. It is expected that the position will aid in not just unravelling genomic regions for GHG but lead to practical design and implementation of breeding programmes for efficient animals with low impact on the environment. It is expected that the holder of the position will work closely with the Mazingira centre and the feed resources group for synergy and impact.

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

Key Responsibilities

• Defining and implementing efficient phenotyping tools for GHG through direct and indirect approaches
• Design efficient genotyping schemes both GWAS to unravel genomic regions for GHG and their ration integration in the implementation of related breeding programms
• Understand current work on Livestock genetics, implement new analytical approaches accounting for crossbreeding effects at both phenotypic and genetic level
• Enlarge portfolio of research to incorporate resilience and increase adaptive capacity of livestock given climate change
• Explore areas of synergy with the Mazingira center and feed resource group

Requirements

• PhD in animal genetics and genomics
• 5 + years in genetic models, genomics and working with large data and 5+ years professional experience post PhD in related topics.
• Experience working on and with teams whose focus are on Livestock breeding programs for low and Medium tropical countries.
• A significant record of achievement in science, evidenced by high quality publications, leadership of projects and teams, success in fund raising.
• Demonstrated experience of research for development applied to the genetics and genomics in Africa
• Good computing skills and experience with variety of software for animal genetics and genomics
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to apply these in research and practical contexts.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to apply these in research and practical contexts.
• Proficiency in French would be desirable.

This position is at job level HG 18, and it is open to both national and international applicants. The position is a three (3) year contract, renewable subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funding. ILRI offers a competitive salary and benefits package which includes medical and other insurances.

Applications: Applicants should send a cover letter and CV expressing their interest in the position, what they can bring to the role, and the names and addresses (including telephone and email) of three referees who are knowledgeable about the candidate’s professional qualifications and work experience to the Director, People and Organizational Development through our recruitment portal by clicking on the “Apply Now” on this page before 17 December 2024. The position title and reference number: REF: LGNF/1661/2024 should be clearly marked on the subject line of the online application.

We thank all applicants for their interest in working for ILRI. Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

ILRI does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview meeting, processing, or training). ILRI also does not concern itself with information on applicants’ bank accounts.

ILRI is an equal opportunity employer.

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