The International Potato Center, known by its Spanish acronym CIP, was founded in 1971 as a root and tuber research-for-development institution delivering sustainable solutions to the pressing world problems of hunger, poverty, and the degradation of natural resources.

The Position:

The Research Assistant will be based in Nairobi-Kenya and will report to the Associate Scientist – Molecular Biologist and Food Chemist-Post Doc

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop gene constructs, validation, and transfer into E.coli and Agrobacterium.
• Support on agrobacterium-mediated genetic transformation, gene editing, and selection on appropriate media.
• Molecular characterization of transgenic and gene-edited events by PCR, RTq-PCR, Southern blot, sequencing, and bioinformatics tools.
• Support on isolation and maintenance of potato pathogens.
• Perform bio-assays using artificial infection of potato plants with local strains in the biosafety glasshouse and other biosafety-approved facilities.
• Ensure plant care in the growth chambers, screen house, and glasshouse.

Selection Criteria

• Bachelor’s degree in biotechnology, Biology, Biochemistry or Plant Pathology with strong skills in Molecular Biology.
• At least 2 years’ experience in molecular biology, genetic transformation, gene editing and plant tissue culture preferably with roots, tubers or banana plants
• Advanced level of MS Office.
• Advanced knowledge of database work.
• Advanced statistical research analysis.
• Fluent in Kiswahili.
• Advanced written and oral communication skills in English.
• Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills.
• Hard working with ability to handle multiple work activities in an effective manner.