Research Scientist in Plant Biotechnology

Job Overview:
Initiates and manages existing research projects on new breeding technologies (NBT) including, mutation breeding and proteomics to support breeding programmes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Together with breeders, designs and implements NBT research experiments in support of the various breeding programmes. Keeps the division abreast with new developments on NBT by reviewing new publications & research reports. Actively sources and secures new research opportunities and contributes to proposals for own research and towards the proposals of others. Compiles own, and contributes to other progress reports (internal and external). Captures, analyses and interprets data. Contributes towards the creation of IP and PBR. Provides supervision and mentors postgraduate students, research technicians and assistants. Understands management of co-workers and mentees. Disseminates technology through peer-reviewed scientific articles, popular publications, etc. Seeks networking opportunities (attends scientific gathering, working with farmer communities, etc.). Compliance with human resource policies and procedures. Ensures compliance with SHE/OHS policies and procedures.

Required Qualifications:
PhD in Plant Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Genomics, Proteomics, Plant breeding or Genetics; OR MSc in one or more of these qualifications with three years of relevant work experience.

Educational Background:
PhD or MSc in relevant fields.

Experience:
Strong background and experience in genomics and proteomics applications on breeding. Experience in the use of Bioinformatics and other genetic data analysis tools is an added advantage. Experience and know-how in plant tissue culture systems (including knowledge on plant material propagation schemes) is an added advantage. Authored or co-authored a minimum of three peer-review scientific publications in a related field. Experience in breeding of root and tuber crops (sweet potatoes, potatoes, cassava, onion) is an added advantage. Proven record of participating as a speaker at conferences. Proven track record of mentoring and/or supervising/co-supervising students. Record of national and/or international partnerships and/or networks. Demonstrable experience in project management.

Languages:
Good communication (verbal & writing) skills and liaison with clients, fellow scientists and support staff.

Additional Notes:
Management skills including research projects, time, and personnel management. Proven record of writing proposals and generating external income. Advanced computer literacy in MS Office suite. Knowledge of health and safety regulations and procedures. Registration with a relevant scientific registration body, where applicable. NRF rating is also considered an added advantage. Valid code 8 driver’s license.