Research Assistant – Wheat rust pathology- CIMMYT - Njoro - Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) and World Agroforestry (ICRAF)

Description

1. Conducting greenhouse and Field experiments on rust research.

• Prepare greenhouse and field experiments (trials and nurseries), for seedling characterization and field resistance
  
• Race purification
  
• Spore multiplication and storage
  
• Race characterization in the greenhouse
  
• Screening S1 and S2 trials for seedling resistance to SR and YR.
  

2. Sentinel nurseries and trap nursery monitoring.

• Working with partners to distribute sentinel nurseries annually
  
• Planting trap nurseries and multiplication nurseries during the main and offseason.
  

3. Data management.

• Data Collection
  
• Lead data capture and input race characterization with guidance from scientists.
  
• Examine data for accuracy before analysis.
  
• Prepare historical data for curation.
  
• Implement electronic data capture in all the field-testing locations using the EBS or other appropriate application to ensure quick turnaround.
  
• Assist M.Sc. and Ph.D. students in data analysis.
  

4. Assist in drafting project progress reports.

• Assist in preparing tables and figures from research results for project reports, publications, draft manuscripts, etc.
  

5. Capacity building and COS supervision.

• Provide training and backstopping services, especially for COS staff for greenhouse activities
  
• Provide technical assistance to visiting scientists and students
  
• Supervise contract and casual labor in data taking.
  

Requirements

• Bachelor's or master's degree in plant pathology or related discipline.
  
• Thorough knowledge of the field of work or specialized equipment.
  
• Basic knowledge of administrative and/or operating protocols and procedures of the research support function.
  
• Basic supervisory skills and experience.
  
• Minimum of two years of experience in plant pathology or related field research
  
• Requires good knowledge of theories, practices, and procedures within a discipline
  
• The position holder will require a minimum of 6 months of on-the-job training.