African Integrated Plant and Soil Research Group (AiPLAS) within the AgroBioSciences (AgBS) develops research that is focused on plant nutrition, abiotic stresses resistance and biofortification in order to contribute in meeting food and nutritional security in Africa.  Major research activities are (i) screening and development of high yielding germplasm and (ii) identification of resistance mechanisms to abiotic stresses and (iii) innovations in biofortification research of key food crops by using a range of fertilization, plant nutrition and cropping options all with food technology advancement.

Job Title: Engineer in Crop Improvement and Plant Phenotyping 

Plant Phenotyping, Agronomy, Plant Breeding

We are seeking applications for a full-time Engineer in the field of Crop Improvement and plant phenotyping. The position is part of the African Integrated Plant and Soil Research Group (AiPLAS). The successful candidate is expected to participate in an interdisciplinary team and contribute in the development of research activities and setting up and running research infrastructures on plant phenotyping and plant breeding. Candidates should hold an M.Sc and/or engineer degree  in the field of plant biodiversity conservation and use, plant breeding, plant phenotyping, or other related disciplines. Priority will be given to the candidates having research experience in African agricultural challenges, setting up and running research infrastructures and conducting field and controlled conditions research experiments. Good English communication skills, both verbal and written, are required.

The successful candidate will be employed on a competitive salary by Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) based in Benguerir, Morocco.

The Engineer in Crop Improvement and plant phenotyping will be expected to:

• Contribute to the establishment of research infrastructure for phenotyping platform at UM6P.
• Assume responsibilities for carrying out technical and scientific operations related to the phenotyping platform and research experiments under open field and controlled conditions.
• Contribute in designing, planning and implementing research activities and experiments, data collection and research results analyses and interpretation.
• Conduct research experiments under open field and controlled conditions.
• Supervise and assist phenotyping screening and breeding activities including screening, evaluation and development of high nutritional value germplasm with high yield potential and resistance to relevant (a)biotic stresses.
• Produce technical and scientific reports and teaching material for capacity-building and training courses (when applicable).
• Assist in developing and implementing collaborative research with different partners and networks.
• Supervise daily labors / technicians / consultants.
• Perform any other duties as required by the direct supervisor.

Applications must be sent using a single electronic zipped folder with the mention of the job title in the mails subject. The folder must contain:

• Cover letter indicating the position applied for and the main research interests.
• Detailed CV.
• Contact information of 3 references (Applicants are assumed to have obtained their references’ consent to be contacted for this matter).

Applications are to be submitted through the hiring platform.

• M.Sc and/or Engineering degree in plant biology, plant biodiversity conservation, plant phenotyping, agronomy, plant breeding or related scientific fields.
• Experienced in conducting field trials and controlled conditions’ phenotyping experiments, breeding activities related with screening and evaluation of food crops’ germplasm for key (a)biotic stresses and high nutritional quality traits.

• At least 5 years’ experience in the field of plant breeding and phenotyping with significant contribution in conducting research experiments and trials, managing germplasm collections, collecting/analyzing data and reporting.
• Good working knowledge and use of potential computer software/programs commonly used in breeding and phenotyping activities/programs (i.e. statistical software, data management, field trials management software).
• Aptitude for teamwork, problem solving and collaborative work.

• Excellent English communication skills.
• Organizational dexterity and ability to prioritize and manage multiple goals
• Positive attitude in changing fast-paced environments