International Institute of Tropical Agriculture seeks Ghanaian nationals for the position below at the institute’s research location in Tamale. These positions are sponsored under the “Yam Improvement for Income and Food Security in West Africa – Phase II (YIIFSWA II) by Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF).

Job Title: Breeder / Foundation Seed Production Officer

Responsibilities

• Assist in the production of foundation planting materials in the aeroponics systems of the research institutes
• Liaise with project officers and partners
• Support project partners in laying out, execution and monitoring of demo plots and field experiments
• Collection of data from demo plots and other field trials
• Facilitate the transfer of stocks of breeder or foundation seed from research institutes to the foundation or certified seed producers
• Record and compile seed yam production and dissemination data in the formal seed system for traceability
• Provide technical assistance to the private seed companies as necessary
• Assist the seed system specialist to organise and conduct seed production related training courses and workshops at local , regional and national levels
• Facilitate, enhance and promote breeder and foundation seed businesses through media campaigns, field demonstrations on station, and advocacy efforts at all levels
• Support national need certification inspectors and other authorities in the implementation of Quality Management Protocol for breeder and foundation seed yam
• Develop a breeder and foundation seek production monitoring and evaluation system in collaboration with the seed system and the M&E teams to track seed production activities
• Establish and maintain close communication with scientist involved in YIIFSWA-II project to facilitate exchange of information and materials
• Report monthly on achievements and progress to the seed system specialist
• Perform any other duties as may be assigned by the supervisor

Qualification Required & Experience

• MSc in plant breeding, agronomy, seed technology or related field
• Individual with knowledge in breeder and foundation seed yam production
• Individual with good verbal and written communication skills
• Must be computer literate, with proficiency in Microsoft Office like Word, Excel, PowerPoint and other analytical software
• Ability to work with staff of different origins, nationalities and disciplines
• Ability to travel frequently across communities within the project’s coverage

Note: Must have the names and e-mail addresses of three professional referees which must include either the Head of applicant’s current or previous organization or applicant’s direct supervisor at work and evidence of current remuneration package