Research Technician II- Tissue Culture Technician

  • Contractor
  • Nairobi Kenya
  • TBD USD / Year
  • International Potato Center profile




  • Job applications may no longer being accepted for this opportunity.


International Potato Center

The International Potato Center (CIP) is looking for a dynamic and experienced Research Technician II- Tissue Culture Technician.

About the role:

The successful implementation of the gene editing project relies on a consistent supply of tissue culture plants. The intricate nature of the research and strict project timelines require a dedicated tissue culture assistant to propagate and maintain plants under tissue culture conditions, ensuring that the quantities needed are available for molecular work at the different stages of the research.

The Technician will ensure that the quality standards of tissue culture materials are adhered to, positively contributing to the successful implementation of the research initiative.

The Research Technician will be based in Nairobi, Kenya and will report to the Food Chemist-Post Doc.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Tissue culture activities involving: Media preparation for invitro cultures, surface sterilization of plants, and introduction of in vitro plant materials.
  • In vitro seed establishment for potatoes, planting and maintaining plant materials in the growth rooms.
  • Isolation of protoplasts and regeneration of plants under appropriate media
  • Maintenance of transgenic and non-transgenic lines in the growth rooms, and screening of transgenic plants in the glass house.
  • Tuber seed production in the glass house.
  • Recording of daily laboratory activities in the lab notebook.
  • Ensure plant care in the growth chambers, screen house, and glasshouse.

What are we looking for?

  • Diploma in Plant Tissue Culture, Science Laboratory Technical Training, or related qualification
  • At Least 5 years of practical experience in plant tissue culture preferably with roots, tubers, or banana plants
  • Experience in protoplast isolation, regeneration, and microscopy is an added advantage.
  • Advanced level of MS Office, database work
  • Advanced written and oral communication skills in English.
  • Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills.
  • Hard working with the ability to handle multiple work activities effectively.
  • Fluent in English and Kiswahili.

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.
  • Work in an equal and diverse workplace.

What are the conditions?

The position is Nationally Recruited Staff (NRS) position limited to Kenya nationals and permanent residents only. The employment contract will be for 1 year (with a 3-month probation period) possibility of renewal, subject to availability of funding.

How to apply

How to apply?

Visit the following link: https://cipotato.org/open-vacancies/ and submit your cover letter and a full C.V. with your references. Screening of applications will begin on January 5, 2023, and will continue until the post is filled. All applications will be acknowledged; however 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.

CIP does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview meeting, processing, or training). CIP also does not concern itself with information on applicants’ bank accounts.


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