Research Technician - Hybrid Breeding-CIMMYT

Center for International Forestry Research

Center for International Forestry Research

Nairobi, Kenya

Posted on Jun 1, 2026

1. Hybrid creation and crossing operations.

  • Execute testcross and/or factorial crossing schemes involving new B and R lines according to breeding plans and protocols.
  • Carry out controlled pollination activities, including sterilization, bagging, tagging, pollination, and harvesting of crossing materials.
  • Monitor flowering synchronization and support timely execution of crossing activities to maximize seed set and data quality.
  • Maintain strict labeling, traceability, and contamination control throughout all hybrid creation activities.
  • Support the generation of experimental hybrids for evaluation and advancement.

2. Gametocide protocol implementation.

  • Implement approved gametocide protocols in hybrid creation in line with standard operating procedures and safety requirements.
  • Prepare treatment materials, apply treatments correctly, and monitor crop response for effectiveness and phytotoxicity.
  • Record all treatment details accurately, including dates, rates, environmental conditions, and observed outcomes.
  • Collaborate with breeders and agronomists to improve protocol efficiency and reliability.

3. Conversion of B lines to CMS lines.

  • Support the conversion of selected new B lines into CMS lines through structured backcrossing programs.
  • Assist in maintaining pedigree records and generation advancement data for conversion cycles.
  • Identify and report any deviations in fertility expression, plant type, or seed quality during conversion work.
  • Ensure that conversion materials are handled with high precision to preserve genetic integrity.

4. Parental line maintenance.

  • Maintain and regenerate A, B, and R seed stocks under strict quality and genetic purity standards.
  • Conduct rouging, isolation, controlled selfing, and harvest operations for parental line maintenance plots.
  • Support seed drying, cleaning, packaging, labeling, storage, and inventory tracking.
  • Monitor seed viability and alert supervisors on regeneration needs to prevent loss of valuable germplasm.

5. Seed production efficiency.

  • Contribute to improvements in seed production efficiency through better field organization, synchronization, and work sequencing.
  • Support the adoption of light mechanization and improved tools where appropriate to reduce labor burden and improve precision.
  • Assist in evaluating field performance, seed set, and operational bottlenecks for continuous improvement.
  • Maintain accurate records to support productivity analysis and decision-making.

6. Data management, quality, and compliance.

  • Maintain complete and accurate field records, crossing logs, seed inventories, and activity reports.
  • Enter and manage data in digital platforms used by the breeding and operations teams.
  • Follow institutional protocols on quality assurance, biosafety, occupational safety, and seed handling.
  • Ensure compliance with internal procedures for genetic materials and research operations.