Research Associate - Plant Breeding

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture seeks suitable Nigerian nationals for the position below at the Institute’s Headquarters in Ibadan.

Position:        Research Associate in Plant Breeding

Contract:       1-year renewable contract                                            

Location: Ibadan

Closing Date: 25 September 2026

DUTIES

• Conduct field-testing of different stages of breeding lines/populations.
• Create related studies in EBS, collect data, and upload the data into EBS in a timely manner
• Assist in leaf sampling for genotyping.
• Prepare seeds for grain quality and disease resistance screenings, and for field-testing on Africa Rice Research Stations and NARS in different countries.
• Assist in collection, curation and analysis research data and draft reports and research publications.
• Ensure digitization and barcoding of breeding nurseries, trials and seed inventories.
• Supervise technicians and labours on a daily basis.
• Assist in degree and non-degree training programs.
• Perform other related duties assigned by the Supervisor.

Requirements

QUALIFICATION

MSc in Genetics and Plant Breeding or related subjects with a minimum of three (3) years’ of relevant experience in design and implementation of experimental research. Experience with agricultural or research-related projects will be an added advantage.

COMPETENCIES

The ideal candidate must have:

• Competence in statistical analysis of research data.
• Experiences in cereals crop breeding and physiology.
• Experience in data collection and statistical analysis using advanced tools like R, Bioflow etc.
• Knowledge of markers assisted breeding and genomic selection is desirable.
• Strong communication and organizational skills and ability to work in a multicultural environment.
• Ability to implement tasks autonomously with minimal supervision and a collaborative team spirit to work effectively in the multidisciplinary team under pressure.
• High integrity results oriented and able to exercise good judgment and think creatively and strategically.
• Ability to communicate fluently (oral and writing) in English.

Benefits

REMUNERATION

We offer highly competitive salary with equally attractive benefits and excellent working conditions in a pleasant campus environment.

METHOD OF APPLICATION

Interested applicants should complete the online application attaching detailed cover letter and curriculum vitae saved with their names in Microsoft word format to IITA website: https://apply.workable.com/iita/#jobs no later than Two Weeks from the date of this publication.

IITA is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse workforce, particularly welcoming applications from women. While all applications will be acknowledged, please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.