Reference number: 202383
Job status: In-progress
Job category: Local Position
Duty station: Nairobi, Kenya
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CIFOR-ICRAF
The Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) and World Agroforestry (ICRAF) envision a more equitable world where trees in all landscapes, from drylands to the humid tropics, enhance the environment and well-being for all. CIFOR and ICRAF are non-profit science institutions that build and apply evidence to today’s most pressing challenges, including energy insecurity and the climate and biodiversity crises. Over a combined total of 65 years, we have built vast knowledge on forests and trees outside of forests in agricultural landscapes (agroforestry). Using a multidisciplinary approach, we seek to improve lives and to protect and restore ecosystems. Our work focuses on innovative research, partnering for impact, and engaging with stakeholders on policies and practices to benefit people and the planet. Founded in 1993 and 1978, CIFOR and ICRAF are members of CGIAR, a global research partnership for a food secure future dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing food and nutrition security, and improving natural resources.

Overview

To provide technical support to the Scientist/Maize Breeder in charge of line development under Eastern Africa Product Profile 2 (late maturity maize) by managing nurseries at the Kiboko research station and trials at other locations in Kenya.

Duties and responsibilities

1. Inbred line nursery management.

• Ensure that nurseries are pollinated and harvested according to instructions from the Breeder.

• Ensure shelling of inbred lines is carried out carefully to avoid seed mixtures.

2. Overseeing of Field experiments.

· Prepare field experiments (trials and nurseries), including trial designs and seed preparation using Fieldbook / Enterprise Breeding System (EBS) according to the breeder’s instructions.

· Generate seed labels and field tags for trial and nursery identification.

· Prepare field maps and planting plans for field trials.

· Manage planting of optimal trials at key locations like Kakamega, Embu, Chorlim, Kimini, and Shikusa in conjunction with external partners like KALRO and Seed Companies.

3. Data analysis.

· Implement electronic data capture in all the field-testing locations using KDSmart or other appropriate applications to ensure quick turnaround.

· Consolidate data from trials at all locations, examine data for accuracy and analyze the data in a timely manner using various software including EBS and Fieldbook.

· Manage historical data entry into the EBS.

· Assist M.Sc. and Ph.D. students in practical maize breeding and data analysis.

4. Assist in drafting project reports and manuscripts.

· Assist in preparing tables and figures from research results for project reports and draft manuscripts.

5. Training and Supervision of casual labor.

· Provide training and backstopping services especially with Fieldbook and data analysis to NARS and seed company partners.

· Supervise contract in data taking according to instructions in trials under both optimum and managed stress conditions.

6. Seed Processing and Storage

· Coordinate seed processing and shipment with different partners, both internally and externally.

· Manage cold storage facilities by consolidating germplasm inventories and developing SOPs.

· In consultation with Scientist identify germplasm that require seed increase.

Requirements

• Master of Science degree in Plant Breeding
• 2-3 years’ experience in plant breeding or seed systems
• Knowledge of MS Office Applications.
• Valid driving license is a must.

Education, knowledge and experience

• Master of Science degree in Plant Breeding
• 2-3 years’ experience in plant breeding or seed systems
• Knowledge of MS Office Applications.
• Valid driving license is a must.

Terms and conditions

• This is a Locally Recruited Staff (LRS) position and on competitive remuneration in local currency, commensurate with skills and experience.
• The appointment will be for a period of two (2) years, inclusive of a six-month probationary period, with the possibility of extension contingent upon performance, continued relevance of the position and available resources.
• The duty station will be in Nairobi, Kenya.

Application process

The application deadline is 07 Jan 2024
We will acknowledge all applications, but will contact only short-listed candidates.

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