About IRRI The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) is dedicated to reducing poverty and hunger through rice science; improving the health and welfare of rice farmers and consumers; and protecting the rice-growing environment for future generations. IRRI is an independent, nonprofit, research and educational institute, founded in 1960 by the Ford and Rockefeller foundations with support from the Philippine government. The institute, headquartered in Los Baños, Philippines, has offices in 17 rice-growing countries in Asia and Africa, and over 1,000 staff.
Working with in-country partners, IRRI develops advanced rice varieties that yield more grain and better withstand pests and disease as well as flooding, drought, and other harmful effects of climate change.
Job Purpose
Under the general direction of the Principal Scientist, the Associate Scientist will conceptualize, plan, and conduct research studies including activities such as preparation, improvement and/or development of necessary research tools, data collection, analysis and interpretation. He will also work closely with collaborating partner/s, exchange information and present research findings (seminars, conferences, publications). Additionally, the Associate Scientist will supervise, coach, and guide scholars, researchers and research technicians. He will also prepare and provide trainings as needed.
This position will be based at the IRRI Headquarters, Los Baños, Philippines and may only be filled by permanent citizens of the Philippines.
Roles and Responsibilities
- Plan and design multiple experiments in hybrid rice development and research studies in the field of two-line hybrid rice breeding such as the establishment of the genetics (QTLs, heritability, & molecular/function mechanism) of high seed producibility in two-line heterosis breeding, heterosis breeding for the exploitation of rice phytobiome for improved nutrient-use efficiency, abiotic stress and stable high yield attainment adapted to sustainable agriculture practices, development of two-line hybrids for direct-seeded market segments with relevant traits, study combining ability for grain quality traits and nutritious grain in two-line heterosis breeding, and development of breeding parental lines for two-line indica-japonica hybrid rice.
- Prepare a research outline stating rationale, hypothesis, experimental layout, statistical design, and timetable of activities.
- Organize research requirements by procuring all the necessary materials and equipment, and ensure that there is adequate manpower and appropriate tools to be used in the study
- Identify, develop, and pre-test a Standard Operating Procedure/Guidelines that would ensure that the research procedures are followed and that there is proper utilization of experimental materials and facilities.
- Align with internal and external stakeholders, including the members of the Two-Line Study Group (TLSG), in order to effectively manage the implementation of the experiments/surveys and other related research studies
- Secure the experiment/research study by constantly coordinating with the supervisors, project partners and leaders and collaborators
- Ensure the efficiency of the research activities by continuous monitoring and coordination with other units and/or contractors
- Assist the supervisor in managing the performance of the Postdoctoral Fellow, Assistant Scientists, Researchers, as well as interns and trainees, in order to maintain a harmonious and productive work environment
- Independently consolidate, verify and analyze collected data using the appropriate advanced statistical tools and draw conclusions by interpreting the outcome of the data based on the defined objective of the study. Assist in the development and training of prediction and AI for seed producibility breeding, rice phytobiome breeding, DSR hybrid rice breeding, and GQ combining ability.
- Deliver significant contributions to the writing of reports, scientific papers, articles, posters, databases for publications, and presentations on a local and international scale
Qualifications
- Master of Science degree in Plant Breeding, Agronomy, or Agriculture with at least 3 years of relevant work experience or
- PhD degree in Plant Breeding, Agronomy, or Agriculture with at least 1 year of relevant work experience or equivalent training/experience
Skills Required
Mandatory
- Has proven technical proficiency in conducting research
- Has experience contributing to research publications, presentations or reports
IRRI offers a highly extensive employee benefits package inclusive of globally-covered medical insurance, retirement plan, life and accident insurance and other allowances.
Join our team and be part of our story!
Please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
This position will remain open until filled.