Temporary Assistant Seed Lab Technician (Internal Vacancy)
Nairobi, Kenya
About Us
CIFOR & ICRAF in action
Landscape Alliance transforms science into action, unlocking the power of trees, forests and agroforestry landscapes to advance planetary health and human well-being. It is the shared operating name of the Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) and the International Centre for Research in Agroforestry (ICRAF), two independent International Organizations and CGIAR Research Centers working together through a common strategy, governance and leadership structure.
CIFOR and ICRAF bring together decades of scientific leadership in forests, trees, agroforestry, biodiversity, climate, food systems and livelihoods. CIFOR, headquartered in Bogor, Indonesia, advances research on forests and landscape management to inform policies and practices that improve human well-being, protect the environment and increase equity. ICRAF, headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, harnesses the benefits of trees for people and the environment, generating knowledge that helps governments, development partners and farmers make farming and livelihoods more sustainable.
Overview
To support the effective conservation, quality management, and utilization of tree germplasm through accurate laboratory-based seed handling, testing, processing, and documentation in line with international genebank standards.
Job Description
- Conduct seed processing, cleaning, drying, packaging, and labeling to ensure high-quality long-term conservation of tree germplasm
- Perform seed viability, germination, moisture content, and purity testing to support quality assurance and monitoring of stored accessions
- Support seed research experiments to generate data for seed storage behavior and viability monitoring.
- Maintain accurate laboratory records, inventories, and databases to ensure traceability and compliance with genebank standards.
- Prepare reagents, media, and laboratory equipment; ensure calibration, cleanliness, and adherence to SOPs.
- Support germplasm distribution, regeneration, and research activities through laboratory preparation and quality checks.
Requirements
- Diploma or bachelor’s degree in plant science, Seed Technology, Horticulture Biotechnology, Forestry, or a related field
- Minimum of 1 yr experience in a seed laboratory, genebank, or plant research environment.
- Practical knowledge of seed testing, seed storage, and laboratory quality assurance systems
- Familiarity with FAO, CGIAR, ISTA, genebank standards is an advantage
- Strong record-keeping skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work effectively in a team and follow SOPs consistently
Education, Experience and Technical skills
•Diploma or bachelor’s degree in plant science, Seed Technology, Horticulture Biotechnology, Forestry, or a related field •Minimum of 1 yr experience in a seed laboratory, genebank, or plant research environment. •Practical knowledge of seed testing, seed storage, and laboratory quality assurance systems •Familiarity with FAO, CGIAR, ISTA, genebank standards is an advantage •Strong record-keeping skills and attention to detail. •Ability to work effectively in a team and follow SOPs consistently
Terms and conditions
•This is a temporary position for Locally Recruited Staff (LRS). CIFOR-ICRAF offers competitive remuneration in local currency commensurate with skills and experience. •The appointment will be for be for 6 months. •The duty station will be in Nairobi, Kenya CIFOR-ICRAF HQ Offices.
