Assistant Research Associate

Job Posting Organization:
CIMMYT is a cutting-edge, non-profit, international organization dedicated to solving tomorrow's problems today. Established as a core CGIAR Research Center, CIMMYT focuses on improving the quantity, quality, and dependability of production systems and basic cereals such as maize, wheat, triticale, sorghum, millets, and associated crops through applied agricultural science. The organization operates primarily in the Global South, fostering strong partnerships to enhance the livelihoods and resilience of millions of resource-poor farmers. CIMMYT is committed to creating a more productive, inclusive, and resilient agrifood system within planetary boundaries, aiming to reduce poverty, enhance nutrition" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food and nutrition security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and improve natural resources. For more information, visit cimmyt.org.

Job Overview:
The Assistant Research Associate position is designed for a highly skilled and motivated individual who will be based in CIMMYT's Southern Africa Office in Harare, Zimbabwe. This role is specifically aimed at supporting CIMMYT scientists in various agricultural research activities, including regional on-farm trials, seed research, seed production, field operations, and labor management. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in ensuring the effective execution of routine field and seed laboratory activities. These activities encompass trial and nursery management, pollinations, data collection, harvesting, shelling, seed processing, and shipment to partners. The position is open to all Zimbabweans with excellent academic records, emphasizing the importance of local expertise in agricultural research and development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Assistant Research Associate will be responsible for coordinating seed producibility trials and generating and archiving descriptor data for selected hybrids, single-cross, and inbred line parents. The role includes establishing and managing nurseries for seed production of elite lines and hybrids under regional and on-farm trials, as well as handling allocated and licensed products. The candidate will oversee pre-basic and basic seed production, including isolations of selected hybrids, single cross parents, inbred lines, and OPVs. Additionally, the role involves seed production for IMIC-Africa, particularly for materials introduced from Kenya or other MLN endemic countries planted at Mazowe PQS. The candidate will also manage seed processing, seed stock management, and shipment for seed systems, and prepare all necessary documents related to the import and export of seeds in collaboration with government seed health departments. Management of hired labor, farm equipment, inputs, and supplies to facilitate activities of the Seed Systems Program is also a key responsibility. The Assistant Research Associate will assist the seed system specialist in training partners, visiting scientists, and students on quality seed production, seed producibility trials, and the development of descriptor data. Furthermore, the candidate will provide support for the International Maize Improvement Consortium for Africa (IMIC) field day in Harare and undertake any other duties as allocated by the Research Associate, Seed Systems Specialist, or Program Director.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in the field of Agriculture. A clean Class 4 Driver's License and a valid Defensive Driving Certificate are also required. The ideal candidate should have at least 2-3 years of relevant working experience in agricultural research or seed production. A basic knowledge of quality seed production and trial and nursery management is essential. Furthermore, candidates must have a thorough understanding of the field of work or specialized seed production equipment. Proficiency in using various analytical and data management software platforms, such as EBS, is necessary, along with the ability to effectively utilize corporate systems and other specialized applications. The selected candidate must demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, teamwork, critical thinking, problem-solving, decision-making abilities, and the capacity to work in a multi-cultural environment.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in Agriculture or a related field is required for this position. This educational background ensures that the candidate has a solid foundation in agricultural principles and practices, which is crucial for the responsibilities associated with the role of Assistant Research Associate.

Experience:
The position requires at least 2-3 years of relevant working experience in agricultural research, seed production, or a related field. This level of experience is essential to ensure that the candidate is well-versed in the practical aspects of seed production and management, as well as the execution of field trials and laboratory activities.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international nature of CIMMYT and its operations. Additional languages relevant to the region may be beneficial but are not explicitly stated as requirements.

Additional Notes:
This is a nationally recruited position specifically open to Zimbabweans. The role is full-time and involves various responsibilities that may require flexibility and adaptability. Benefits for this position include private health insurance, a pension plan, paid time off, and opportunities for training and development, which are designed to support the professional growth and well-being of the employee.