RESEARCH ASSOCIATE – 2

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture(IITA) on behalf of the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) invites applications for the position of RESEARCH ASSOCIATE – 2.

Background: The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) is a nonprofit independent research and training organization. IRRI is a member of the Consultative Group of International Agricultural research (CGIAR) Consortium.

The research Associate will facilitate the planning, designing and implementation of the routine trials, data analysis and other research activities of projects about Rice production improvement in Tanzania focusing on the development and up-scaling of improved rice production and post-harvest technologies and on training farmers, technicians and extension officers. 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 technologies. Consolidate, evaluate and analyze research data gathered from trials.

Duty Station: The position will be based in – Dakawa – Morogoro.

Qualifications and experience

• Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture with minimum 5 years work experience from which at least 3 years in rice research/development
• Master of Science degree in Agriculture with minimum 1-year relevant work experience in rice research/development

Skills and knowledge Mandatory

• Has proven technical proficiency in conducting research experiments and field trials
• Has strong experience in field management (layout, irrigation, fertilization, pest and disease monitoring)
• Has proven technical proficiency in conducting Farmer-Field Schools
• Has experience in statistical analysis and report preparation
• Has strong oral and written and communication skills
• Has strong analytical skills
• Has proven technical proficiency in conducting research experiments and field trials

Preferred

• Has strong technical experience in guiding farmers, technicians and extension officers

Responsibilities

Purpose

• Facilitate the planning, designing and implementation on the routine trials, data analysis and other research activities of projects about Rice production improvement in Tanzania focusing on the development of improved rice production and post-harvest technologies and on training farmers, technicians and extension officers.
• Contribute to the development of the research projects including selection of adequate research tools and equipment, verification of suggested methodologies and establishment of parameters related to rice production intensification.
• Verification and up scaling of technologies that enhance improved rice yields in farmers’fields.

Oversee maintenance of the research areas, research fields and technical equipment

Engagement

• 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 projects
• Provide assistance and guidelines to internal and external stakeholders considering efficient implementation of the projects
• Constantly monitor, evaluate and provide recommendations to improve research and training activities/tasks performed by Research Technicians and contract workers in order to maintain smooth conduct of field and greenhouse trials as well as to foster a productive working environment
• Coordinate with required IRRI services and supplies to ensure smooth implantation of experiments/surveys

Delivery

• Consolidate, evaluate and analyze research data gathered from the project trials
• Evaluate, validate and contribute to the interpretation of results, contribute to the writing of manuscripts for reports/publications as well as presentations/posters for national and international conferences
• Prepare and submit updated research outputs to the Scientist in a timely manner
• Supervise and lead the maintenance of accurate data recording and updating of database for efficient storage and retrieval of information

Work Condition and environment

• Requires work in field/screenhouse/greenhouse/laboratory
• May require occasional travel to other countries

General information:

The duration of contract for the position is two years. This is a nationally recruited position and IITA offers a competitive remuneration package.

Applications: Applications including curriculum vitae, copies of certificates, telephone number, email address, and names and addresses of two referees should be sent to the Country Representative, IITA-Tanzania, Plot No. 25, Mwenge – Coca-Cola Road, Mikocheni Industrial Area P.0. Box 34441, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania or by email to [email protected]

Applicants are requested to please indicate the reference number for the position as indicated on the heading of the announcement in your application as well as on the subject of your email if sending by email. If sending by post or hand delivery, please indicate the reference number on your application as well as on the left-hand side of your envelope. Please note that any applications without the reference number indicated will be automatically disqualified.

Closing date: The deadline for submitting the application is 19 June 2023.

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.