Post-Doctoral Scientist – Livestock Stem Cell Biobanking and Restoration

Post Doctoral Scientist – Livestock Stem Cell Biobanking and Restoration

Location: Nairobi, Kenya

Category: Livestock Genetics

About the Position

The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) is seeking a highly qualified Post-Doctoral Scientist specializing in Livestock Stem Cell Biobanking and Restoration. This pivotal role involves overseeing livestock biobanking, functional genomics, reproductive technologies, and precision breeding. The successful candidate will drive collaborative efforts between African and Asian National Agricultural Research Systems (NARS), the Centre for Tropical Livestock Genetics and Health (CTLGH), the Tropical Poultry Genetic Solution (TPGS), and other regional and international organizations. The position extends to sharing the Kenyan-KALRO breeding experience with national and regional breeding and biobanking programs across Africa and Southeast Asia. This work complements ongoing functional genomic analyses, genome editing, and reproductive technology initiatives.

About ILRI

ILRI works to improve food and nutritional security and reduce poverty in developing countries through research on efficient, safe, and sustainable livestock use. It is the only one of 15 CGIAR research centers dedicated entirely to animal agriculture research for the developing world. Co-hosted by Kenya and Ethiopia, ILRI has regional or country offices and projects in East, South, and Southeast Asia, as well as Central, East, Southern, and West Africa. Learn more at ILRI.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and Deploy Technologies: Collaborate with ILRI, the Roslin Institute, KALRO teams, and other partners to develop, test, and deploy livestock stem cell, genome editing, and reproductive technology tools to accelerate genetic gains in tropical livestock, focusing on poultry.
• Sustain Collaborations: Build and maintain R&D collaborations with national systems and regional/international partners in Africa and Southeast Asia to ensure the dissemination and uptake of stem cell cloning, cryopreservation, and recovery technology.
• Coordinate Joint Biobanking Activities: Support the Principal Investigator in designing and implementing joint biobanking activities between ILRI, the Roslin Institute, and NARS partners. Coordinate data collection and analysis, regular reporting, and communication with CTLGH teams.
• Publish Research: Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals, conference proceedings, and other media. Prepare publications including working papers, policy briefs, technical reports, journal articles, conference papers, and presentations.
• Supervise and Mentor: Supervise interns, graduate and post-graduate fellows, and visiting scientists on laboratory activities related to CTLGH-LiveGene biobanking programs.
• Capacity Building: Contribute to fieldwork and capacity-building activities of CTLGH/LiveGene. Facilitate workshops and site visits to support national systems in establishing gene banks.
• Database Management: Develop and maintain a detailed, searchable database of training delivered to measure impact and foster agile learning.
• Resource Mobilization: Assist in developing resource mobilization proposals and perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Educational Background: A PhD degree in a relevant discipline is essential.
• Experience: Extensive experience with germ cell isolation, culture, cellular assays/characterization, and biobanking. Proven experience in training trainers and national partners in stem cell conservation in Africa.
• Research Background: At least 2 years post-doctoral experience as a research scientist in an African national poultry breeding program.
• Partnership Skills: Demonstrated experience in working with national and regional partners in Africa and/or Southeast Asia, developing and maintaining strong partner relations.
• Technical Skills: Ability to maintain databases, monitoring and evaluation frameworks, and reporting systems. Experience in contributing to and initiating new research projects, including grant and proposal writing.
• Communication: Excellent communication skills, both oral and written. Proficiency in English is essential; knowledge of French and other languages is advantageous.
• Mobility: Willingness to travel to partner countries within Africa and elsewhere.

Work Environment

Join ILRI’s fast-paced, innovative team based in Nairobi, Kenya. The institute offers a supportive work culture with opportunities for continuous learning and development.

Salary and Benefits

• Salary: Competitive salary package based on qualifications and experience.
• Benefits: Comprehensive benefits including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.
• Contract: This is a two-year contract, renewable subject to performance and funding availability.

How to Apply

Applicants should send a cover letter and CV expressing their interest in the position, detailing what they can bring to the role. Include the names and contact details (telephone and email) of three referees knowledgeable about your professional qualifications and work experience. Apply through our recruitment portal by clicking the “Apply Now” tab above before 28 June 2024. The position title and reference number: LG/1431/2024 should be clearly marked on the subject line of the online application.

ILRI is an equal opportunity employer. We thank all applicants for their interest. Due to high application volumes, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. ILRI does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process.

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We wish you the best in your application process. Remember, ILRI is committed to attracting and retaining the best employees from all races and backgrounds in our continued effort to become a better development partner. ILRI is an equal opportunity employer and does not charge any application/recruitment fee.