Somatic embryogenesis scientist/ biologist

The World Agroforestry Centre is looking for a scientist to contribute to their collaborative research on advanced multiplication methods for cocoa germplasm. This will help sustain delivery of improved planting material to farmers which is essential to meeting the challenge of revitalising cocoa plantations in West Africa. 

In collaboration with scientists from Mars, Incorporated and national partners, the scientist will contribute to the following:

• Design and implementation of a large in vitro cacao plant production pipeline through somatic embryogenesis in Côte d’Ivoire.
• Programming of activities, calculations of consumption of materials and reagents, and preparation of budgets and financial and progress reports.
• Evaluation of the embryogenic response of different genetic materials selected for in vitro plant propagation.
• Coordination of collections of flowers for introduction in culture media.
• Preparation of solutions, culture media and materials for the introduction of plant material and maintenance of in vitro cultures in solid and liquid media.
• Acclimation of plants and evaluation of their development in the field.
• Training of personnel in the process of propagation by somatic embryogenesis in solid and liquid cultures.

Qualifications and experience

• PhD in natural sciences or a related discipline
• Field experience in tropical, developing countries
• At least 5 years of experience in Theobroma cacao L. somatic embryogenesis research
• Sound knowledge of soil science, agronomy and terrestrial ecology
• Strong quantitative and statistical skills in multivariate and multilevel modeling
• Experience with cocoa agronomy will be an added advantage
• A strong publication record
• Ability to work in a team and good people skills
• Proficiency in both English and French

To apply, send a cover letter illustrating your suitability for the position, and your salary expectations; a detailed and up-to-date curriculum vitae; and the names and addresses of three referees, including telephone numbers and email addresses, and fax details, if available, to:

The Human Resources Unit, World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF), PO Box 30677, 00100, Nairobi, Kenya

OR send via email.