International Potato Center (CIP) Careers

About the role

• The International Potato Center (CIP) through the Sweet GAINS project has been working at modernizing sweet potato breeding programs, by improving excellence in the management of breeding data. The position will support these efforts for Root and Tuber Crops (RTB) in Sub-Saharan African (SSA), Latin America and Asia.

Key Responsibilities:

• The data and IT specialist will be part of the data management team overseeing RTB breeding and seed data management systems.
• Understand existing tools used for data capture and assist in the developing modules that extend the scope for the current tools.
• Respond to ICT support requests from CIP breeders and partners in a timely manner through WhatsApp/telegram/telephone/field visits.
• Contribute to writing standard operating procedures for RTB breeding data management.
• Lead capacity building efforts among project collaborators and partners in data collection, storage and management. Act as lecturer in these trainings.
• Implement and monitor Quality Assurance (QA) protocols and routines, including safe and remote back-up of database systems and tools.
• Contribute to development and management of germplasm data management systems for RTB invitro and invivo germplasm collections at KEPHIS, Mugaga, Kenya.
• Designing (in collaboration with subject area specialists) and implementing comprehensive, gender-aware, monitoring and evaluation systems to assure that quality data (both quantitative and qualitative) are collected, entered, and stored for project use and documented for eventual public use.
• Contribute to development of additional dashboards to enable routine monitoring of social science data coming from the field.
• Support other information management activities at CIP.
• Keep up to date with the latest tools and resources, including open-source software, for the collection, management, storage and sharing of data and information.
• Maintain the confidentiality of all information collected.
• Perform any other activity as assigned to by the supervisor.
• Supervise a junior data management staff member.
• Be committed to using research for development in a complex cooperative environment of research and development partners. The work will require travel within Sub Saharan Africa.

What are we looking for?

• MA/MSc degree in Information Systems, Database Management, Computer Science, or related discipline.
• At least six years research experience in the design and implementation of data management systems.
• Experience working with integrated database systems preferably for research projects, including large-scale socioeconomic and/or biological surveys e.g., MySQL or MS SQL Server.
• Knowledge and experience of mobile data collection systems.
• Knowledge and experience of Linux operating systems.
• Knowledge and experience in cloud services administration (like AWS or Linode).
• Experience with database design, database management and computer programming, and with the application of quality assurance standards and procedures.
• Understanding and experience of working in applied agricultural research preferred.
• Experience in software and web application programming. Knowledge of PHP scripting language and development in WordPress preferred.
• Good judgement, adaptability, and willingness to take initiative when appropriate.
• Demonstrated success in working with multi-disciplinary teams and partnerships in research or project implementation.
• Excellent interpersonal communication and good personal organization skills.
• Advanced written and oral communication skills in English.

Objective
Major responsibilities are as follows:

• Conduct desk research to analyze the current operational and functional activities within the germplasm distribution system.
• Conduct desk research to assess the processes and costs associated with indexing and cleaning various RTB varieties.
• Investigate existing partnership models and value propositions relevant to the Regional Germplasm Hub (RGH) through desk research.
• Provide assistance in developing data collection tools and gathering relevant data from key stakeholders for the development of the business plan and business model for the RGH.
• Regularly update the international consultant overseeing the RGH business plan and maintain communication with the designated CIP contact person.
• Calculate the return on investment resulting from investments in both the RGH and
• RTB seed system within the East African region.
• Prepare working papers, briefs, and blog posts based on research findings.
• Assist in conducting meetings and workshop for the development of the business plan for RGH.

Deliverables

• Data collection tools and relevant data for financial analysis.
• Preliminary report on the business plan and return on investment study.
• Final report on the business plan.
• Final report on return on investment study.
• Working paper, blogs and briefs on business models, partnerships models and return on investments.

Selection Criteria

• Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics.
• At least 3 years of experience.
• Specialty in Agricultural economics, cost benefit analysis and applied econometrics.
• Worked on return on investment on roots, tubers and/or banana seed system.
• Skills in Applied Econometrics, Return on investment and financial cost-benefit analysis.
• Advanced knowledge of database work.
• Advanced level of MS Office and STATA
• Advanced written and oral communication skills in English.

• The position: The selected candidate will develop and lead CIP’s Africa regional strategy in support of CIP2030 strategic goals and in response to the priorities of regional stakeholders. The Regional Director for Africa will be responsible for government, partner and funder relations and represents CIP with these stakeholders in the region. The Regional Director for Africa will direct and supports Country Managers to develop and manage strategic relationships at country level. In addition, the selected candidate will ensure organizational growth in the region through technically and financially sound programming and equitable partnerships.
• The successful candidate will report to the Director General and will be based in Nairobi, Kenya.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Planning, Partnerships, and Representation: Leads the development and oversee delivery of implementation plans and other strategic mechanisms for the implementation of CIP2030 Strategy. Models and practices CIP’s commitment to Equitable Partnerships with stakeholders in the region, establishing and nurturing strategic partnerships with governments, funders and other key constituencies. Represents CIP with governments, funders, the international community, industry representatives and regional bodies through regular interactions and participation in policy and technical forums. Directs and supports Country Managers to develop and manage productive and equitable relationships with stakeholders at country level. The Regional  Director will also contribute to the evolution of CGIAR strategies and partnerships in the region.
• Resource Mobilization and Programming: Develops and drives forward resource mobilization plans for the region, focused on the CIP2030 strategic goals, the evolving priorities of regional constituencies and arising opportunities. Maintains a high level of understanding of funder priorities relevant to CIP in the region.
• Worksclosely with CIP Science Leaders and the Resource Mobilization team, the Regional Director will oversee the development of innovative programs in response to these priorities, applying Equitable Partnership principles to forge regional and international partnerships for this purpose.
• CIP Operations in the Region: Oversees the implementation of CIP’s operations in the region, including People & Culture, Finance, Grants and Legal Services, and Administration, working closely with the global Heads of these operations units. Ensures the implementation and monitoring of financial and operational policies and procedures at country and regional level and provide regular reports to CIP Operations Leaders as required.
• The Regional Director is accountable for compliance according to external agreements and delegation of authority assigned to this position.
• Safety, Security and Risk Management: Oversees the implementation of regional security guidelines and security management plan. Implements CIP’s Health & Safety policy at regional level and ensure compliance at country level.
• People Management: Leads CIP’s commitment to recruit, manage and develop high performing regional and country-based staff. Develops a positive work environment for all staff across the region. Manages and mentors
• Country Managers to ensure effective talent management processes, contributes to their performance reviews, and identifies succession and staff development plans.

What are we looking for?

• Advanced degree (PhD or Master) in a Science or Management discipline.
• At least 10 years of progressive international experience in similar research and/or development organizations.
• Significant leadership experience in an equivalent position in a development or international organization.
• Strong track record of establishing and managing strategic partnerships with funders, governments, international organizations, and the research community at regional level in Africa.
• Strong knowledge and experience of management practices to enable the creation of appropriate regional implementation plans and mechanisms.
• Proven expertise of leading large funding initiatives and manage complex regional projects and programs.
• Budget management and IT literate (Microsoft and ERP software).

Leadership competencies:

• Focus on big picture and strategic vision.
• Building and maintaining partnerships and relationships.
• Planning and managing staff to achieved quality results.
• Influencing and resolving differences across boundaries.
• Leading by example
• Outstanding written and oral communication skills in English.
• Proficiency in French, Portuguese, or Kiswahili is highly desirable. 

• The position: The selected candidate will develop and lead CIP’s Africa regional strategy in support of CIP2030 strategic goals and in response to the priorities of regional stakeholders. The Regional Director for Africa will be responsible for government, partner and funder relations and represents CIP with these stakeholders in the region. The Regional Director for Africa will direct and supports Country Managers to develop and manage strategic relationships at country level. In addition, the selected candidate will ensure organizational growth in the region through technically and financially sound programming and equitable partnerships.

The successful candidate will report to the Director General and will be based in Nairobi, Kenya.

Requirements

• Advanced degree (PhD or Master) in a Science or Management discipline.
• At least 10 years of progressive international experience in similar research and/or development organizations.
• Significant leadership experience in an equivalent position in a development or international organization.
• Strong track record of establishing and managing strategic partnerships with funders, governments, international organizations, and the research community at regional level in Africa.
• Strong knowledge and experience of management practices to enable the creation of appropriate regional implementation plans and mechanisms.
• Proven expertise of leading large funding initiatives and manage complex regional projects and programs.
• Budget management and IT literate (Microsoft and ERP software).

Leadership competencies:

• Focus on big picture and strategic vision.   
• Building and maintaining partnerships and relationships.
• Planning and managing staff to achieved quality results.
• Influencing and resolving differences across boundaries.
• Leading by example
• Outstanding written and oral communication skills in English.
• Proficiency in French, Portuguese, or Kiswahili is highly desirable.

About the role:

This position will support the pest and disease diagnostics of root and tuber crops of various projects and initiatives aimed at strengthening seed value chains, quality control to improve farmers’ access to high-quality seeds, and increasing the productivity of root and tuber crops in Africa. More specifically, the Research Associate will:

• Undertake training and capacity building of stakeholders in the target area on pest and disease (PCN, Ralstonia and viruses) diagnostics of root and tuber crops using ELISA, PCR, LAMP assay, microscopy and morphological diagnostic methods
• Provide technical backstopping and training to public and private seed quality assurance service providers on seed quality management assurance process and procedures for vegetatively propagated crop
• Provide technical backstopping and training to seed producers on certified or quality assured planting materials production and compliance with inspection and certification protocols,
• Develop and implement plant diagnostic or prevention programs and plans, conduct, analyze, interpret and trouble shoot diagnostic results.
• Provide information on integrated approaches to monitoring, managing and controlling root and tuber crops pests/disease
• Provide advice and recommendations on all safety aspects for transport, handling, storage, usage and disposal of pesticides/fungicides/nematicides
• Provide advice and recommendations on timing and frequency of spraying of crops with pesticides for best results while considering environmental safety
• Liaise with project and administrative staff to ensure timely and effective project management and reporting.

What are we looking for?

• Master’s degree in Plant Pathology, or Crop Protection or Biotechnology or Agriculture with the focus on diagnostics of PCN, Ralstonia and viruses using morphological, microscopy, PCR, ELISA, LAMP assay diagnostic tools
• At least 6 years of relevant work experience in a similar position.
• Demonstrable knowledge and expertise of working on integrated pest management of root and tuber crops with specific reference to quarantine and regulated pest and diseases.
• Ability to develop and implement pest and disease diagnostic or prevention programs using microscopy, ELISA, PCR, LAMP assay and others.
• Good knowledge of the field and laboratory techniques involved in diagnosing diseases in plants preferably on root and tuber crops,
• Ability to interpret and analyze pest and disease diagnostic results of microscopy, ELISA, PCR, LAMP assays.
• Good knowledge of root and tuber crops seed production techniques, and seed inspection and certification guidelines
• Demonstrable experience in training and community engagement with public, private partners and farmers
• Result focused and able to work under pressure and tight deadlines in a challenging context.
• Skills in statistical research analysis.
• Proven analytical and report writing skills.
• Fluent in official language according to country location.
• Advanced written and oral communication skills in English.
• A high level of interpersonal and management skills and ability to work with teams.

About the role:

• The successful implementation of the gene editing project relies on a consistent supply of tissue culture plants. The intricate nature of the research and strict project timelines require a dedicated tissue culture assistant to propagate and maintain plants under tissue culture conditions, ensuring that the quantities needed are available for molecular work at the different stages of the research.
• The Technician will ensure that the quality standards of tissue culture materials are adhered to, positively contributing to the successful implementation of the research initiative.
• The Research Technician will be based in Nairobi, Kenya and will report to the Food Chemist-Post Doc.

Key Responsibilities:

• Tissue culture activities involving: Media preparation for invitro cultures, surface sterilization of plants, and introduction of in vitro plant materials.
• In vitro seed establishment for potatoes, planting and maintaining plant materials in the growth rooms.
• Isolation of protoplasts and regeneration of plants under appropriate media
• Maintenance of transgenic and non-transgenic lines in the growth rooms, and screening of transgenic plants in the glass house.
• Tuber seed production in the glass house.
• Recording of daily laboratory activities in the lab notebook.
• Ensure plant care in the growth chambers, screen house, and glasshouse.

What are we looking for?

• Diploma in Plant Tissue Culture, Science Laboratory Technical Training, or related qualification
• At Least 5 years of practical experience in plant tissue culture preferably with roots, tubers, or banana plants
• Experience in protoplast isolation, regeneration, and microscopy is an added advantage.
• Advanced level of MS Office, database work
• Advanced written and oral communication skills in English.
• Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills.
• Hard working with the ability to handle multiple work activities effectively.
• Fluent in English and Kiswahili.

Why should you consider this opportunity?

• CIP is a global and reputable international organization that has a strong, state-of-the-art R&D background.
• CIP is dedicated to achieving food security, improved nutrition and well-being, and gender equality for poor people in root and tuber farming and food systems of the developing world.
• CIP is a member of the CGIAR, a global research partnership for a food secure future dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing food and nutrition security, and improving natural resources.

What are we offering?

• Excellent working environment.
• Generous compensation package commensurate with experience.
• Work in an equal and diverse workplace

About the role:

• The successful implementation of the gene editing project relies on a consistent supply of tissue culture plants. The intricate nature of the research and strict project timelines require a dedicated tissue culture assistant to propagate and maintain plants under tissue culture conditions, ensuring that the quantities needed are available for molecular work at the different stages of the research.
• The Technician will ensure that the quality standards of tissue culture materials are adhered to, positively contributing to the successful implementation of the research initiative.
• The Research Technician will be based in Nairobi, Kenya and will report to the Food Chemist-Post Doc.

Key Responsibilities:

• Tissue culture activities involving: Media preparation for in-vitro cultures, surface sterilization of plants, and introduction of in vitro plant materials.
• In vitro seed establishment for potatoes, planting and maintaining plant materials in the growth rooms.
• Isolation of protoplasts and regeneration of plants under appropriate media
• Maintenance of transgenic and non-transgenic lines in the growth rooms, and screening of transgenic plants in the glass house.
• Tuber seed production in the glass house.
• Recording of daily laboratory activities in the lab notebook.
• Ensure plant care in the growth chambers, screen house, and glasshouse. 

Requirements
What are we looking for?

• Diploma in Plant Tissue Culture, Science Laboratory Technical Training, or related qualification
• At Least 5 years of practical experience in plant tissue culture preferably with roots, tubers, or banana plants
• Experience in protoplast isolation, regeneration, and microscopy is an added advantage.
• Advanced level of MS Office, database work                                      
• Advanced written and oral communication skills in English.
• Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills. 
• Hard working with the ability to handle multiple work activities effectively.
• Fluent in English and Kiswahili.

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.

About the role:

• The Research Associate will work closely with the Agricultural Economist in the GBPP project and Scientist, Agricultural Economist in Seed Equal Initiative in ensuring the smooth and efficient realization of the projects and supporting planned impact assessment activities.

Key responsibilities:

Support the Agricultural Economist in the GBPP project in:

• Conducting stakeholder and market analyses
• Organizing expert elicitation workshops
• Organizing validation workshops and follows with potato experts.
• Collecting secondary data for ex-ante foresight modeling.
• Support the Scientist, Agricultural Economist in Seed Equal Initiative in:
• Collecting primary/secondary data
• Reviewing existing peer-reviewed literature
• Econometric analyses.
• Writing research drafts, policy briefs, communications

What are we looking for?

• Master's degree in Agricultural Economics, Economics, or related area with at least 6 years of relevant work experience.
• Advanced statistical research analysis.
• Advanced level of MS Office.
• 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.
• Scientific papers production and publishing
• Experience in GAMS will be an added advantage.