International Potato Center

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT

Ref.: 2021/03/NRS/CCCAP

Senior Research Associate—Molecular Biologist

The International Potato Center (CIP) seeks to recruit a dynamic and experienced Senior Research Associate, specialized in Molecular Biology for the CIP-China Center for Asia Pacific (CCCAP).

The Position: The successful candidate will partner with expert teams both within and outside CCCAP. These expert teams will have a range of disciplines, including breeding, molecular biology, statistics, genomics, plant pathology, plant physiology, phenomics and crop modelling. The selected candidate will lead the use of molecular tools to support efforts in potato and sweetpotato breeding. The position will report to the Country Liaison Scientist and be based in Yanqing District, Beijing, China.

Key responsibilities:

Execute and lead the molecular and genetic research of CCCAP.Design and create genetic tools and experiments, staying abreast and applying advances in the field.
Keep informed and up to date the latest scientific advances in genetics, molecular biology, marker-assisted breeding, and other related sciences. Provide breeders, CCCAP and external scientists , with the necessary molecular tools to to assist them in reaching their goals.
Work closely with peers to enhance molecular techniques applied across all sections of CCCAP’s research agenda.
Identify hazards and assess the risks of the laboratories, implementing measures to prevent, mitigate and reduce the risks.
Partner with CCCAP Yanqing property engineer, keep updated and be responsible for all maintenance issues, calibrations, repairs, and improvements of any material, equipment, space and infrastructure at the laboratories, to ensure equipment works properly at all times.
Keep updated with all training and certifications required for the optimal management and performance of the laboratories.
Ensure personnel working in the laboratories have been properly trained and supervised in their regular tasks and duties. Ensure all personnel are regularly updated in everything related to Health and Safety on the job.
Work closely with the Germplasm Distribution Center for analysis of genetic materials held in trust.
Comply with all CIP and CCCAP internal policies and procedures.

Selection Criteria

MSc in Biology, Microbiology or related Agricultural Sciences specialization. PhD would be a plus.
At least 8 years of relevant work experience in agricultural related area or project coordination.
Knowledge of the latest technologies applicable to molecular biology, genetics and genomics.

Demonstrated experience in experiment design, including experience of molecular applications in plant genetic tools populations and field-ased experiment.
Ability to create effective collaborations within CIP and outside CIP with a diverse set of institutions, disciplines and stakeholders.
Commitment to work in a multi-partner, multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural environment.
Advanced level in written and spoken English and Chinese (Mandarin).

Why should you consider this opportunity?

CIP is a global and reputable international organization that has a strong, state-of-the-art R&D background.
CIP is dedicated to achieving food security, improved nutrition and well-being, and gender equality for poor people in root and tuber farming and food systems of the developing world.
CIP is a member of the CGIAR, a global research partnership for a food secure future dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing food and nutrition security, and improving natural resources.

What are we offering?

Excellent working environment.
Generous compensation package commensurate with experience.
Two-years’ term contract with possibility of renewal
Work in an equal and diverse workplace.

What are the conditions?

The position is Nationally Recruited Staff (NRS) position limited to Chinese nationals and permanent residents only. The ideal candidate should be fluent in Chinese and English (written and spoken). Contract will start from February 2022, based in Yanqing District, Beijing, China.

How to apply?

Visit the following link:  http://cipotato.org/open-vacancies/ and submit your cover letter and a full C.V. with your references. Screening of applications will begin on December 19, 2021 and will continue until the post is filled. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

This position WILL NOT have contact with children or vulnerable adults

Learn more about CIP by accessing our website at http://www.cipotato.org.

CIP is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified women are particularly encouraged to apply

By Zhu Jinjin (zhujinjin@caas.cn)