About IRRI

Job Purpose

This role will facilitate the planning, designing, and implementation of experiments related to trait discovery and targeted rice diseases. In particular, assists with the bioinformatics and analysis of genetic data.

The Assistant Scientist is expected to constantly communicate with internal and external project partners and collaborators to exchange conceptual ideas findings, present research findings through conferences and publications to effectively gather feedback and research-related requirements for the advancement of the project; supervise and
guide scholars, researchers, and technicians; prepare and provide training sessions as needed.

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

• Facilitate the planning, designing, and implementation of experiments for projects in the area of molecular plant pathology, genetics, and genomics
• Contribute to research studies related to the discovery of new disease-resistance genes using modern forward and reverse approaches (GWAS, QTL mapping, comparative genomics, transcriptomics, etc.)
• Contribute to the functional characterization of candidate disease-resistance genes using advanced gene editing technologies (CRISPR Cas)
• Contribute to the development of research proposals including review of related literature, selection of adequate research tools, and verification of suggested methodologies
• Supervise and lead the maintenance of accurate data recording and update database for efficient storage and retrieval of information
• Administer effective coordination and preparations of trainings by ensuring that the training materials, logistical arrangements, and resource persons are appropriate to the defined objectives.
• Constantly communicate with internal and external project partners and collaborators to exchange conceptual ideas and to effectively gather feedback and research-related requirements for the advancement of the project
• Constantly monitor, evaluate, and provide recommendations to improve research activities/tasks performed by research technicians and contract workers in order to maintain smooth conduct of lab, field, and greenhouse experiments as well as to foster a productive working environment
• Coordinate with required IRRI services and supplies to ensure smooth implantation of experiments/surveys reports/publications as well as presentations/posters for national and international conferences
• Perform bioinformatic analysis of the data (genomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomic) corresponding to disease resistance components in rice genotypes
• Genetic analysis, identification of new genes and QTLs for disease resistance, and genetic improvement of the elite lines for resistance to important rice diseases
• Design and develop plasmid vector for overexpression and knockout of candidate resistance genes (CRISPR Cas gene editing)
• Perform and oversee all activities in the conduct with the generated transgenic lines (Screening, pathogen inoculation, growth performance analysis)
• Compliance with the biosafety regulations and stewardship protocols (DOST proposals etc.)
• Supervise and guide scholars, researchers, and technicians, and prepare and provide training sessions as needed.
• Perform any other relevant duties as assigned by the supervisor from time to time

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture/Molecular Biology /Plant Pathology/ Genetics and 4 years of relevant work experience in research
• Master of Science degree in Plant Pathology/Molecular Biology/Bioinformatics and 1 year of relevant work experience in research

Skills Required

Mandatory

• Has proven technical proficiency in conducting research experiments related to molecular plant pathology
• Experience in molecular cloning and transgenics
• Has strong analytical skills using advanced statistical tools
• Has experience with quality assurance and research data management
• Highly committed to work and able to collaborate with partners
• Has strong oral and written communication skills
• Has strong presentation and computer skills
• Can work independently
• Has the capability to lead a small research team and guide students

Preferred

• Has experience in CRISPR Cas and bioinformatics tools

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 that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.