Africa Rise Center Vacancy

Africa Rise Center (AfricaRice, Ex-WARDA) is an autonomous intergovernmental research association of African member states. AfricaRice is also one of the 15 international Centers supported by the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR). AfricaRice believes that diversity in its staff promotes excellence in its operations, and encourages applications from women and nationals of developing countries. AfricaRice is operating from its temporary' headquarters, located17km north of Cotonou, Benin and stations in Ibadan, Nigeria, SL Louis, Senegal and Dares-Salaam, Tanzania.
AfricaRice, located on the campus of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, Ibadan, Nigeria, seeks a highly qualified Nigerian to fill the position of

RESEARCH ASSOCIATE (ENTOMOLOGY)
• The successful candidate will be stationed at AfricaRice’s station in Ibadan and will work under the supervision of the AfricaRice Entomologist.
• Responsibilities
• The successful candidate who should be a Nigerian national will:
• Supervise laboratory, on-station, and on-farm activities on components of integrated pest management in rice;
• Screen insect vectors and alternate host plants of rice yellow mottle virus, screening rice varieties for resistance to the African rice gall midge and rice stern borers;
• Execute field trials, analyze data, write scientific reports of research outputs and carry out literature survey
• Train and supervise field workers;
• Maintain insect reference collection for exhibition;
• Carry out any other duties as may be required.

Requirements
Candidates must have
• MSc in Applied Entomology or Insect Molecular Biology plus three (3) years experience in insect pest management;
• Demonstrated skills in insect rearing and identification service;
• Interest and ability to work in multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural teams;
• Knowledge of agro-ecosystems related to rice cultivation;
• Experience in insect molecular biology and biotechnology;
• Familiarity with computer softwares such as word processing, spreadsheet (Excel), power point, and strong statistical skills;
• Proficiency in written and spoken English and or French, with a working knowledge of the other is desirable.
• Ability to communicate effectively with farmers and extension agents would be considered an advantage.

Remuneration
We offer highly competitive salary with equally attractive fringe benefits and excellent working conditions in a pleasant campus environment

Method of Application
Interested applicants should forward their applications with a detailed curriculum vitae, the names and addresses of three professional referees (including telephone, fax and e-mail addresses if available), evidence of current remuneration package and photocopies of credentials to:
The Personnel Manager,
International Institute of Tropical Agriculture,
PMB 5320,
Oyo Road, Ibadan, Nigeria;

This job vacancy can also be found on our website: www.iita.org Please note that application letters not accompanied with evidence of current remuneration and age will not be treated. Only shortlisted candidates will be considered.


Closing Date: 30th April, 2010.

Africa Rise Center Vacancy