Position Responsibilities

• The Post-Doctoral Fellow will be responsible for developing and executing biotechnological strategies, including RNAi and gene editing for controlling RPW, working closely with internal research teams, external partners, and stakeholders within the C4RPWC program. The successful candidate will report to the Lead of the Biotechnology Program at IITA. The tasks will include:
• Design, conduct, and optimize laboratory and field experiments on RNA interference (RNAi)-based pest control strategies, including both direct applications (e.g., dsRNA nanoparticles, injections) and plant-expressed dsRNA systems.
• Develop a transformation and gene editing system for date palm, African palm, and sugarcane.
• Generate gene-edited events with enhanced resistance against RPW infestations.
• Develop and validate molecular and genomic tools for monitoring efficacy, insect resistance, and environmental safety.
• Collect, analyse, and interpret molecular, genetic, and ecological data related to RPW control interventions.
• Conduct bioinformatic analyses of RPW genomes, transcriptomes, and gene targets relevant to RNAi and gene editing.
• Collaborate with international, multi-disciplinary teams across C4RPWC partner institutions.
• Provide technical guidance and training to graduate students, technicians, and national program partners in molecular entomology and biotechnology.
• Contribute to building local capacity for biotechnology-based pest management in partner countries.
• Support the coordination and monitoring of IITA’s contributions to the RPW control program.
• Prepare high-quality research outputs, including peer-reviewed publications and technical briefs.
• Prepare progress reports, presentations, and knowledge-sharing materials for donors, partners, and stakeholders.
• Engage in outreach and science communication to demonstrate program impact on livelihoods, ecosystems, and sustainable pest management.
• Explore novel delivery platforms for biotechnological control agents with emphasis on scalability and field applicability.
• Coordinate the regulatory compliance and stewardship for the project.
• Support the development of grant proposals to secure funding for further research in gene editing and manage research projects effectively.
• Actively participate in monthly meetings, annual reviews, and planning meetings and contribute to strategic research planning.
• Host visitors, donors, and collaborators, providing lab tours and discussing the project’s progress.
• Adhere to institutional policies and perform additional tasks as required.

Requirements

Educational Qualifications

• The candidate should have a Ph.D. in Plant Biotechnology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, or a related field with a focus on gene editing technologies. Experience in plant molecular biology, plant engineering, or plant biotechnology, with demonstrated experience in gene editing and RNAi.

Core Competencies

• Research Excellence:
• Deep understanding of RNAi and gene editing and their application in crop improvement.
• Proficiency in molecular techniques, including vector design, cloning, PCR, and sequencing.
• Strong experience in plant tissue culture and genetic transformation.
• Excellent data analysis and bioinformatics skills.
• Innovation: Ability to develop novel approaches to genetic engineering and problem-solving.
• Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams and external partners.
• Communication: Skilled in disseminating research outcomes to scientific audiences.
• Project Management: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage the project.
• Writing Skills: Proven track record of publication in peer-reviewed journals.