Banana Breeder Job Vacancy Available at IITA

Banana Breeder Job Vacancy at IITA – Shape the Future of Agriculture in Tanzania

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is excited to announce a job vacancy for a Banana Breeder. If you have a passion for plant breeding and a drive to make a significant impact in agriculture, this could be your chance to contribute to innovative projects in East and Central Africa.

About IITA

IITA is a renowned not-for-profit institution focused on agricultural innovations to address Africa’s critical challenges, including hunger, malnutrition, and poverty. As a member of CGIAR, IITA works with partners across sub-Saharan Africa to enhance food security, improve livelihoods, and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

Position Overview

Position: Banana Breeder
Ref. No: DDG-R4D/BB/07/24
Location: IITA-Arusha, Tanzania
Contract Duration: Initial three-year period
Remuneration: Internationally competitive, paid in U.S. Dollars

Key Responsibilities

As the Banana Breeder, you will:

• Formulate Breeding Strategies: Develop effective strategies to enhance yield, stress tolerance, and nutritional content of banana varieties.
• Product Design and Development: Create elite breeding materials and identify new candidate varieties tailored to specific market segments.
• Demand-Led Breeding: Contribute to market segment definitions and product profile development, supporting seed system activities.
• Germplasm Development: Collaborate with national and regional partners to obtain and develop suitable germplasm for the breeding program.
• Coordination and Optimization: Oversee multi-location product performance testing, ensuring cost-effective breeding operations and high-quality outcomes.
• Collaboration and Capacity Building: Forge strong partnerships with public breeding programs, provide training and mentorship, and support regional crop networks.
• Resource Mobilisation: Lead proposal development and fundraising efforts, and contribute to the publication of research findings.

Qualifications

• Educational Requirements: PhD in plant breeding, genetics, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years in plant breeding, with a preference for experience in tropical regions and with polyploid and perennial crops.
• Skills: Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills, with proven ability to work in multicultural environments and in resource mobilization.

Application Process

To apply, submit your CV, a cover letter detailing how your background aligns with the role, and contact information for three professional referees. Applications should be sent to the Head of People and Culture via this online form.

Closing Date: This position will remain open until filled.

IITA is an equal-opportunity employer committed to building a diverse workforce and encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups.

Apply now and join IITA in driving agricultural innovation for a food-secure future!

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