Deadline: 18 March 2023
The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) seeks to recruit a Post-Doctoral Fellow to undertake research aimed at determining the mechanism of tolerance to infection with T. parva. These studies will complement the genomic analyses currently underway. A greater understanding of the mechanism of tolerance may reveal new insights into how best to control or prevent East Coast fever.
The main purpose of the job is to undertake research aimed at determining the mechanism of tolerance to infection with T. parva. The primary work will comprise the analysis of the proliferative response of infected lymphocytes and the regulation of the associated genes in susceptible and tolerant calves.
This position is at job level HG 16 and will be based in Nairobi, Kenya. The position is a 2-year contract, renewable subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funding. ILRI offers a competitive salary and benefits package which includes pension, medical and other insurances
I. Key Responsibilities
- Undertake in vitro infection and proliferation assays of T. parva-infected bovine lymphocytes to identify relevant lymphocyte sub-populations involved in mediating tolerance to ECF.
- Devise and carry out in vitro assays to validate genes identified as candidates in mediating tolerance
- Interact with other members of the group
- Publish results as peer-reviewed articles
- Contribute to the development of resource mobilisation proposals as appropriate
- Perform any other related duties as may be assigned
II. Requirements
- A PhD degree in a relevant discipline is essential.
- Requisite publication record
- Experience with cell cultures/ cellular assays, especially those involving the analysis of proliferative responses
- Knowledge and experience with molecular biology and proteomic techniques such as PCR and immunoassays.
- Knowledge and experience with in vitro genetic manipulation techniques would be an advantage.
- Willingness to learn and introduce other techniques.
- Able to apply problem-solving skills to troubleshoot challenging technical issues.
- Excellent organisational, communication and interpersonal skills are essential.
- Ability to travel to regional and international locations.
III. How to apply
- Applicants should send a cover letter and CV expressing their interest in the position, what they can bring to the job 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 Director, People and Organizational Development HERE
- The position title and reference number REF: PD-LG/898/2023 should be clearly marked on the subject line of the cover letter.
- 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.
- Qualified women applicants are encouraged to apply
IV. About ILRI
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.
To find out more, please visit ILRI website
