Research Associate III – Agronomy at International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI)

Job Description

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The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) works to improve food security and reduce poverty in developing countries through research for better and more sustainable use of livestock. ILRI is a CGIAR research centre – part of a global research partnership for a food-secure future.

Key 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 Kenya 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

Requirements

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 Basic knowledge of MS Office (Word, Excel) or other softwares Proven technical proficiency in conducting research experiments and field trials Has strong experience in field management (layout, irrigation, fertization, pest and disease monitoring) Proven technical proficiency in conducting farmer-field schools Experience in statistical analysis and report preparation Strong oral and written communication skills Strong analytical skills Has strong technical experience in guiding farmers, technicians and extension officers