Assistant Research Associate

Job Posting Organization:
CIMMYT is a cutting-edge, non-profit, international organization dedicated to solving tomorrow’s problems today. Established to enhance the quantity, quality, and dependability of production systems and basic cereals such as maize, wheat, triticale, sorghum, millets, and associated crops, CIMMYT focuses on applied agricultural science, particularly in the Global South. The organization builds strong partnerships to improve the livelihood trajectories and resilience of millions of resource-poor farmers, while working towards a more productive, inclusive, and resilient agrifood system within planetary boundaries. As a core CGIAR Research Center, CIMMYT is part of a global research partnership aimed at achieving a food-secure future, dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing nutrition" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food and nutrition security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and improving natural resources. For more information, visit https://www.cimmyt.org/

Job Overview:
The Assistant Research Associate position is designed for a proactive individual who will support the planning and execution of research activities within CIMMYT. The role emphasizes ensuring high standards of quality, compliance, and operational efficiency in managing research activities. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing various aspects of research related to germplasm introduction, regeneration, processing, conservation, and distribution. This position also involves improving both physical and digital data capture formats, which are crucial for the effective management of research data. The Assistant Research Associate will play a key role in supporting distribution processes and ensuring that all research activities align with international standards and best practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Assistant Research Associate include managing research activities related to germplasm introduction, regeneration, processing, conservation, and distribution. The individual will carry out the Germplasm Bank’s technical, logistical, documentation, and training operations. Additionally, the role requires supervising and applying rigorous quality control to passport, characterization, and evaluation data. The Assistant Research Associate will also support the review of internal and external audits by documenting findings, nonconformities, and corrective actions. Furthermore, the position involves facilitating guided visits and awareness-raising activities to promote the organization's research and initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in Agronomy, Biosciences, or related fields, or have equivalent years of work experience. A minimum of 2 years of experience in similar roles related to plant breeding, seed science, and crop science is required. Additionally, candidates should have knowledge of international research standards, including FAO, Genesys, or ISO. Proficiency in intermediate English (B2 level) and intermediate MS Office skills are also necessary for this position.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in Agronomy, Biosciences, or a related field. Alternatively, candidates may qualify with equivalent years of relevant work experience in the agricultural sciences, particularly in areas related to plant breeding and crop science.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of experience in roles similar to that of an Assistant Research Associate, specifically in the fields of plant breeding, seed science, and crop science. This experience should demonstrate the candidate's ability to manage research activities effectively and adhere to international research standards.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is intermediate English (B2 level). While not explicitly stated, proficiency in Spanish may be beneficial given the location of the job in Mexico and the nature of the work environment.

Additional Notes:
CIMMYT offers an attractive remuneration package that includes support for continuous professional development. In addition to the provisions of the Mexican Labor Law, the benefits package includes a year-end bonus equivalent to 40 days of salary, a vacation premium of 56%, life and medical insurance, supermarket coupons, a savings fund, and social benefits under Mexican law (IMSS, SAR / Infonavit). It is important to note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted for further steps in the hiring process. Foreign national candidates must possess the legal documents required to work in Mexico. This position will remain open until filled, and CIMMYT is committed to being an equal opportunity employer, fostering a multicultural work environment that values gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity.