Research Associate I – Molecular Biology

The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) is an international organization dedicated to improving lives and the planet through livestock science, focusing on equitable and resilient livestock systems in low- and middle-income countries. ILRI is a member of CGIAR, a global research alliance. The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), for whom this position is recruited, works to reduce producer and consumer risks, enhance crop quality, and generate agricultural wealth across Africa.

The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) is seeking a Research Associate on behalf of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) to support the development of constructs and molecular characterization of gene-edited and RNA interference (RNAi) transgenic plants, specifically date palm and sugarcane. The role focuses on construct development, genomic DNA extractions, PCR, Southern blotting, qRT-PCR, sequencing, mutation detection, and maintaining bacterial cultures. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team of scientists, contributing to ongoing research in plant genome editing and trait enhancement.

1. Develop genome editing and RNAi constructs.
2. Perform genomic DNA extraction from various transgenic and gene-edited events of date palm, sugarcane, or other crops for molecular analysis.
3. Conduct PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) and qRT-PCR (quantitative Real-Time PCR) to assess gene expression and verify mutations.
4. Execute mutation detection assays, including T7 endonuclease and band-shift analysis.
5. Carry out Southern blot analysis for gene copy number determination and transgene integration.
6. Perform sequence analysis for detecting and validating gene edits using techniques such as Sanger or next-generation sequencing.
7. Maintain and propagate bacterial cultures for plasmid DNA preparations.
8. Contribute to the maintenance of gene-edited plant lines in the lab and greenhouse.
9. Ensure accurate data collection, analysis, and record-keeping for experimental results.
10. Assist in preparing reports, presentations, and manuscripts related to research findings.
11. Collaborate with other team members and provide technical support in molecular techniques.
12. Perform any other assigned duties.

1. Bachelor’s degree or diploma in molecular biology, Biotechnology, Genetics, or a related field.
2. Relevant professional certification.
3. Two years of relevant experience with a degree or four years with a diploma.
4. Experience with in silico gene cloning tools such as Benchling and SnapGene.
5. Hands-on experience with molecular techniques including DNA extraction, PCR, qRT-PCR, and sequencing.
6. Familiarity with Southern blotting and mutation detection assays is advantageous.
7. Ability to maintain detailed lab records and adhere to protocols precisely.
8. Strong organizational and time management skills.
9. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for a collaborative research environment.