Description

• Conducts research in the field of vegetable genomics and molecular breeding, including DNA marker technologies, to support breeding programmes.
• Initiates, designs, implements and manages new and contribute to existing research projects.
• Project management and coordination entails planning research, equipment and materials, human resources, financial, risk management and mitigation, monitoring, evaluation and close-out reporting.
• Keeps the division abreast with new developments on molecular breeding by reviewing new publications & research reports.
• Actively sources and secures new national research opportunities and writes proposals for own research and contribute towards the proposals of others.
• Manages data capturing, analysis, interpretations and recommendations.
• Compiles detailed reports, contributes to other progress reports (internal and external) and seeks approval for final reports.
• Renders diagnostic and advisory services at a national level.
• Disseminates technology through peer-reviewed scientific articles, popular publications, manual productions, radio and TV talks, and other marketing events.
• Contributes towards the creation of IP and PBR. Conduct research, development and support innovation, translation, commercialization and adoption and use.
• Responsible for supporting strategic research collaboration by being active in partnerships, networks, intra and inter institutional collaboration.
• Responsible for supporting human capacity development that includes support of project staff and students through mentoring, and own development.

Requirements

• PhD in Plant Genomics, Plant Biotechnology, Plant Breeding or related field.
• Experience in genomics of potatoes/sweet potatoes will be an added advantage.
• Advanced computer literacy.
• Ability to render diagnostic, technical and other services at national level.
• Research planning and management of research projects (Genomics): At least 3 years’ experience in a relevant scientific research environment, post MSc with a national record of accomplishment on the level of a researcher.
• Collaboration: Record of building national and international partnerships and networks. The researchers work under guidance and with support of seniors.
• Initiation, planning and execution of Genomics research projects.
• Minimum 3-5 peer reviewed publications or number of publications should be equivalent to what was required from master’s and PhD level for their field respectively.
• Registration with a scientific and professional body will be an added advantage.
• Proven record of accomplishment for generating external income for projects in line with requirements on master’s and PhD level. In this respect proven record of writing of proposals as part of master’s and PhD studies.
• Proven record of participating as speaker nationally as part of master’s and PhD level. Must be able to show competence in presenting research results.
• Proven record for financial management of projects.
• Proven track record of mentoring and supervising/supervising other researchers and students.
• Valid driver’s license.