Research Associate I - Yam Tissue Culture

About the role

The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) is hiring a Research Associate I in its Yam project, based in Westlands, Nairobi. The role centres on plant tissue culture and Agrobacterium-mediated transformation of yam, including preparation of culture media, maintenance of accessions and handling of transgenic plants.

Key responsibilities

• Prepare the plant culture media needed for yam transformation and tissue culture.
• Assist in maintaining and multiplying yam accessions.
• Assist with Agrobacterium-mediated transformations of yam and focus on the regeneration of DNA-free events.
• Help pot and wean transgenic plants in the glasshouse and water them regularly.
• Maintain, multiply and regularly subculture in vitro yam cultures.
• Collect, analyse and compile data for progress reports.
• Maintain records of consumables, glassware and equipment in the tissue culture and transformation laboratory.
• Carry out any additional tasks assigned by supervisors.

Required profile

• Diploma in Agriculture or a related field with 2 years of relevant work experience.
• Experience in plant tissue culture.
• Understanding of health and safety in the workplace and good working practices.
• Good oral and written communication skills.

Required skills

• Basic knowledge of MS Office (Word, Excel) or other software.