Assistant Research Associate

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Position Title: Assistant Research Associate
Location: Mexico City
Country: Mexico
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
CIMMYT is a cutting-edge, non-profit, international organization dedicated to solving tomorrow’s problems today. Established to improve 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 enhance the livelihood trajectories and resilience of millions of resource-poor farmers, 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 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 cimmyt.org.

Job Overview:
The Assistant Research Associate role at CIMMYT is pivotal in monitoring progress, evaluating outcomes, and adapting strategies to meet the evolving needs of agricultural research. This position is focused on delivering impactful, science-based solutions that address global challenges in food security, climate resilience, and rural livelihoods. The Assistant Research Associate will be involved in various aspects of maize breeding and crop management, contributing to the planning and execution of experiments, data collection, and analysis. The role requires a proactive approach to managing breeding nurseries and pollination crews, ensuring high-quality seed production, and supporting the overall objectives of CIMMYT's research initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Assistant Research Associate will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties including: managing maize breeding nurseries and pollination crews to produce high-quality seed; participating in the planning of experiments and seed preparation for nurseries and trials; collecting high-quality phenotypic data using research plot combines and electronic devices, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs); assessing data quality and implementing corrective measures as necessary; operating planting, harvest, and spray equipment; maintaining essential research equipment; scouting for weeds and pests; training temporary workers in research techniques; supporting seed preparation, sowing, crop management, and harvesting; collecting physiological and agronomic data; processing plant tissue samples; supervising casual workers; managing and curating data in databases; supporting high-throughput phenotyping; supervising and coordinating fieldwork; handling hiring processes for temporary personnel; applying research techniques for crop cultivation; capturing project results for analysis; maintaining contact with research assistants; ensuring equipment maintenance; and supporting the supervisor in various functions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in agriculture or a related scientific field. Additionally, they should have 4 to 5 years of relevant experience in agricultural research or a similar environment. Knowledge of agronomy, basic plant physiology, and field plot techniques is essential, along with good computer skills, particularly in Microsoft Office. The ability to operate agricultural equipment safely is also required. Candidates should demonstrate client orientation, critical and creative thinking, problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in agriculture or a related scientific field is mandatory for this position. This educational background provides the foundational knowledge necessary for understanding agronomic principles and research methodologies relevant to the role.

Experience:
The selected candidate must have 4 to 5 years of experience in agricultural research or a related field. This level of experience is crucial for effectively managing the responsibilities associated with the Assistant Research Associate position, including fieldwork, data collection, and collaboration with research teams.

Languages:
A high proficiency level in English is mandatory, with candidates required to pass an English test scoring a minimum of B2 as per the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
CIMMYT is an equal opportunity employer that fosters a multicultural work environment valuing gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity. Women are particularly encouraged to apply. Interested candidates may apply online, and qualified individuals may be invited to join CIMMYT's talent roster for two years, with the option to opt in or out of having their information retained for future opportunities.