The International Potato Center (CIP) is looking for an experienced Research Associate, Agronomist to review and fine-tune the model for driving RTC commercialization as per project focus and, accordingly, develop a comprehensive framework for monitoring and evaluating transformation and commercialization of the RTC-subsector.

About the project:

CIP is implementing a project on Market-led Transformation of the Root and Tuber Crops Subsector in Malawi (RTC-MARKET) program, 2025 – 2026. The goal of the project is to sustainably increase the contribution of the RTC subsector to the national economy, food and nutrition security, incomes, and employment creation through commercialization of the subsector. It aims to transform and commercialize the RTC subsector by increasing private sector participation in the RTC value chains. The RTC-Market Project plans to reach at least 60,000 value chain actors with market-led interventions; create at least 4,000 jobs mainly targeting women and youths; etc.

About CIP

CIP is a member of the One CGIAR, a global research partnership for a food-secure future. One CGIAR science is dedicated to transforming food, land and water systems in a climate crisis, and it is carried out by 13 CGIAR Centers/Alliances in close collaboration with hundreds of partners, including national and regional research institutes, civil society organizations, academia, development organizations and the private sector.

About the role

The successful candidate will coordinate the agronomist component of the RTC project. This position will be based in Bvumbwe, Malawi office and will report directly to the Project Manager & Crop Management Specialist.

Key responsibilities:

• Work together with Government Research Stations to ensure seed production of different classes of potato and sweetpotato seed under containment.
  
• Support project partners in the establishment and harvest of on-farm seed and root production demonstration plot.
  
• Provide partners with technical support for the establishing and monitoring of seed multiplication sites/fields and production of roots and tubers.
  
• Support the Project Manager in key activities such as budgeting and report writing.
  
• Supervise field technicians in their duties, perform any other duties as assigned by Project Manager and such as representing organization at various functions deemed important.
  
• Conduct and collect data from trials on sweetpotato technology development.
  
• Facilitate seed dissemination to beneficiaries.
  
• Analyze trial data and draft reports and publication papers.
  
• Contribute to development, implementation and evaluation of joint technology packages at study plots.
  
• Develop training materials, protocols and technical content sweetpotato technologies.
  
• Train trainers and farmers on seed multiplication and root production.
  
• Conduct participatory technology evaluations to assess technology adaptation needs.
  

Requirements

• Master’s degree in an agriculture-related field.
  
• At least 5 years of experience in crop research for technology development.
  
• Strong experience in market or business development models.
  
• Proven experience in crop development and working with farming communities.
  
• Fluency in spoken and written English, as well as the relevant local language.
  
• Ability to work effectively with partners and contribute to a positive work environment.
  

Benefits

• Excellent working environment.
  
• Competitive compensation package commensurate with experience.
  
• Initial fixed-term contract through April 30, 2026, with the possibility of extension.
  
• Work in an equal and diverse workplace.