- Nairobi, Kenya
The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) seeks to recruit a Postdoctoral Researcher on Genome Editing of Theileria parva.
ILRI works to improve food and nutritional security and reduce poverty in developing countries through research for efficient, safe and sustainable use of livestock. It is the only one of 15 CGIAR Research Centres dedicated entirely to animal agriculture research for the developing world. Co-hosted by Kenya and Ethiopia, it has regional or country offices and projects in East, South and Southeast Asia as well as Central, East, Southern and West Africa. www.ilri.org
The Position:
The Postdoctoral research fellow will contribute to the CTLGH (a partnership between ILRI, Roslin Institute, and Scotland Rural College) efforts at leveraging genome engineering technologies to mitigate the impact of tropical livestock diseases. This post holder will lead the development CRISPR-Cas9 genome engineering of Theileria parva parasites, the causative agent of East Coast fever (ECF) in sub-Saharan African cattle. The post holder will also work, under the supervision of the Group leader – Roslin Institute and closely with the colleagues in the ECF tolerance project both at ILRI and Roslin Institute.
Key responsibilities
- Lead the generation of reagents and resources needed for the project,
- Lead the acquisition and analysis of data key to the research project.
- Lead publishing of research findings of high quality and impact in a timely manner in refereed scientific literature.
- Present research findings at both national and international conferences, and Institute/CTLGH events and seminars
- Keep a meticulous records of research methods and findings.
- Contribute to general lab and institute activities
Requirements
- A PhD in parasitology, molecular biology, vector biology, or similar.
- Experience of two to four years of completing PhD
- Proven and extensive experience in genetic manipulation, cloning, and sterile cell culture.
- A track record of research outputs commensurate with level of research experience
- Ability to quickly learn and independently apply new techniques after initial training
- Exceptional organizational and time management skills and computer literacy for the recording and communication of results.
- Experience in CRISPR-Cas genome engineering of apicomplexans is an advantage.
- Experience working with ticks or tick transmitted pathogens
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to apply these in research and practical contexts.
Post location: The position will be based in Nairobi, Kenya
Terms of Appointment
This position is at job level HG 16, and it is open to both national and international applicants. The position is a two (2) year contract, renewable subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funding. ILRI offers a competitive salary and benefits package which includes medical and other insurances.
Applications: Applicants should send a cover letter and CV expressing their interest in the position, what they can bring to the role and the names and addresses (including telephone and email) of three referees who are knowledgeable about the candidate’s professional qualifications and work experience to the Chief, People and Culture Officer through our recruitment portal by clicking on the “Apply Now“. Revisions of application will start 22/02/2025 and position will be closed when filled. The position title and reference number: PD-H/1748/2025 should be clearly marked on the subject line of the online application.
We thank all applicants for their interest in working for ILRI. Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
ILRI does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview meeting, processing or training). ILRI also does not concern itself with information on applicants’ bank accounts
ILRI is an equal opportunity employer
