Internship in Plant Breeding and Genetics

Job Posting Organization:
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is an international organization that seeks to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy and to inhibit its use for any military purpose, including nuclear weapons. Established in 1957, the IAEA has a mission to accelerate and enlarge the contribution of atomic energy to peace, health, and prosperity throughout the world. The organization operates in over 170 countries and has a workforce of approximately 2,500 employees. The IAEA's work encompasses various fields, including nuclear safety, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and safeguards, as well as the application of nuclear techniques in areas such as health, agriculture, and environmental protection.

Job Overview:
The internship program at the IAEA is designed to provide students and recent graduates with practical work experience that aligns with their academic studies or interests. Interns will have the opportunity to engage with the IAEA's programs and contribute to the organization's mission. The internship typically lasts for a minimum of three months and can extend up to one year. Interns will work within the Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications, specifically in the Plant Breeding and Genetics Laboratory, where they will support research aimed at enhancing food security and promoting climate-smart agriculture. This role will involve hands-on experience in microbial mutagenesis, molecular characterization, and laboratory techniques related to beneficial fungi and bacteria, as well as components of plant tissue culture work.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for conducting biochemical characterization of beneficial microbials using media assays. They will perform DNA extraction and PCR for the molecular characterization of these microbials. Additionally, interns will document all critical steps of their work and prepare comprehensive reports detailing their findings and methodologies. The internship will also involve collaboration with other team members and participation in laboratory meetings to discuss progress and share insights.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in biological science, agricultural science, or a related field. They should have a solid understanding of the fundamentals of biology and knowledge of basic molecular biology tools. Prior hands-on experience with biology and molecular biology laboratory techniques is essential. Excellent written and spoken English is mandatory, and fluency in any other IAEA official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish) is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
Applicants must be at least 20 years old and have completed a minimum of three years of full-time studies at a university or equivalent institution towards obtaining their first degree. Candidates may apply within one year of completing their bachelor's, master's, or doctorate degree. It is important to note that candidates who have previously participated in the IAEA's internship program are not eligible to apply.

Experience:
The internship is aimed at individuals who are currently studying or have recently graduated, thus requiring candidates to have some level of academic experience in their field of study. Practical laboratory experience, particularly in molecular biology techniques, is highly beneficial and may be a determining factor in the selection process.

Languages:
Proficiency in written and spoken English is essential for this position. Additionally, fluency in any of the IAEA's official languages (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish) is advantageous and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
The internship is for a duration of three months, with the possibility of extension up to one year. This position is classified as an internship, which typically does not offer compensation. Candidates are required to submit two signed letters of recommendation along with their application. The IAEA is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion within its workforce and encourages applications from all qualified individuals.