Research Technician – Cassava Field & Lab Support

About the role

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture is looking for a Research Technician to support cassava research activities at its headquarters in Ibadan. You will work across field, screenhouse and laboratory environments, ensuring high‑quality data collection, sample handling and routine tissue‑culture operations.

Key responsibilities

• Support cassava field operations including establishment, crop maintenance, harvesting, post‑harvest activities and monitoring of field trials and breeding populations.
• Collect, record, validate and maintain agronomic, phenotypic, PPD and other research data using approved digital tools.
• Handle, transport, digitally image, annotate and perform quality control of cassava research materials between field, laboratory and screenhouse.
• Assist routine laboratory and tissue‑culture activities such as media preparation, sterilisation, sample handling, multiplication, maintenance and acclimatisation of cassava cultures.
• Ensure proper labeling, tracking, storage, cleanliness, safety and organization of laboratory samples, workspaces, equipment and consumables.
• Perform other related duties as directed by the supervisor.

Required profile

• National Diploma in Crop Science, Agriculture or a related field.
• Minimum two (2) years’ experience supporting laboratory, field data collection or research activities in a structured environment.
• Strong attention to detail, good organisational and record‑keeping abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in laboratory, screenhouse and field settings with good communication and teamwork skills.

Required skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Word.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel.

What we offer

• Highly competitive salary with attractive benefits.
• Excellent working conditions on a pleasant campus environment.