assistant scientist - Molecular biologyInternational Rice Research Institute

About IRRI
The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) is the world's premier research organization dedicated to reducing poverty and hunger through rice science; improving the health and welfare of rice farmers and consumers; and protecting the rice-growing environment for future generations. IRRI is an independent, nonprofit, research and educational institute, founded in 1960 by the Ford and Rockefeller foundations with support from the Philippine government. The institute, headquartered in Los Baños, Philippines, has offices in 17 rice-growing countries in Asia and Africa, and over 1,000 staff.
Working with in-country partners, IRRI develops advanced rice varieties that yield more grain and better withstand pests and disease as well as flooding, drought, and other harmful effects of climate change.
Job Purpose
Under the minimal supervision of the Senior Scientist II - Biotechnology, assist in the design of experiment(s), survey(s) and other research studies according to Organizational Unit specific project goals and research objectives. Manage the implementation of defined research activities. Evaluate and validate experimental data and contribute to manuscript for reports/publications as well as presentations/posters for national and international conferences. Supervise, coach and guide scholars, OJTs, researchers and research technicians. Coordinate and prepare training sessions for a variety of people.
This position will be based at the IRRI Headquarters, Los Baños, Philippines and may only be filled by permanent citizens of the Philippines.
Roles and Responsibilities
Assist in designing experiments based on the research outline provided, in the area of iron biofortification of rice
Contribute to the development of research proposals including reviewing related literature and providing logistical support
Exchange conceptual ideas with collaborating partners (national/international) and seek feedback
Coordinate with collaborating partners on their research requirements
Verify suggested methodologies and establish parameters and select adequate research tools and equipment
Assist in the identification of support staff and assign tasks/responsibilities
Coordinate the required services and supplies for the experiments
Manage the implementation of experiments/surveys and other research studies related to [iron biofortification of rice]
Provide assistance and guidelines/information to scholars and collaborators considering the implementation of experiment(s) including the logistics
Assign, monitor and evaluate research activities/tasks performed by Researchers, Research Technicians and contract workers; provide guidance when necessary
Maintain smooth conduct of experiment(s) by troubleshooting and fostering a productive teamwork environment and develop standard operating procedures
Consolidate, evaluate and analyze research data related to iron bio-fortification of rice
Summarize and validate data using appropriate advanced statistical tools independently
Assist in the interpretation of results in relation to iron bio-fortification of rice and make recommendations for further research
Assure maintenance of accurate data recording and update database for efficient storage and retrieval of information
Supervise the work of Researchers, Research Technicians; contribute to the professional development and carry out performance appraisals of Researchers/Research Technicians
Contribute to the preparation of reports, publications, and presentations
Summarize research findings and draft manuscripts for publication in refereed journals
Provide inputs to project reports and prepare posters and papers for presentation at local and international conferences
Draft training material using readily available published information (i.e. protocols, methodology)
Prepare necessary supply; identify resource persons; make sure that the logistics are appropriate for defined purpose
Act as resource person for training courses and visitors
Qualifications
Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture and 4 years of relevant work experience in Molecular biology or Master of Science degree in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology and 1 year relevant work experience in Molecular biology
Skills Required
Mandatory
Has proven technical proficiency in conducting research experiments
Has strong oral and written communication skills
Has strong analytical skills
Has some experience with quality assurance
Has some experience with research management
Has good presentation skills
Has excellent computer skills
Is able to work independently
Preferred
Has some experience supervising or overseeing the work of staff
Skilled in transgenic plant handling, colorimetric, DNA analysis, plant phenotyping, experimental design, writing project reports
IRRI offers a highly extensive employee benefits package inclusive of globally-covered medical insurance, retirement plan, life and accident insurance and other allowances. Join our team and be part of our story!
Please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
This position will remain open until filled.
International Rice Research Institute

Philippines
Permanent
Full-time