Job ID: HQ01822

About IRRI

The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) is dedicated to reducing poverty and hunger through rice science; improving the health and welfare of rice farmers and consumers; and protecting the rice-growing environment for future generations. IRRI is an independent, nonprofit, research and educational institute, founded in 1960 by the Ford and Rockefeller foundations with support from the Philippine government. The institute, headquartered in Los Baños, Philippines, has offices in 17 rice-growing countries in Asia and Africa, and over 1,000 staff.

Working with in-country partners, IRRI develops advanced rice varieties that yield more grain and better withstand pests and disease as well as flooding, drought, and other harmful effects of climate change.

Job Purpose

The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) is an independent, non-profit and world’s premier research organization dedicated to abolishing poverty and hunger among people and populations that depend on rice-based agri-food systems. Through our work and partnerships, we aim to improve the health and welfare of rice farmers and consumers; promote environmental sustainability in a world challenged by climate change; and support the empowerment of women and the youth in the rice industry. The institute, headquartered in Los Baños, Philippines, has offices in 17 rice-growing countries in Asia and Africa

The Project Associate – I will be an integral member of the research team and will contribute to various aspects of the project— from data processing and variant discovery to bioinformatics analysis and field-based validation activities. This position offers a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge genomic research, collaborate with experienced scientists, and make a tangible impact on rice improvement efforts across South Asia. The role is well-suited for early-career professionals with a strong foundation in genetics, molecular biology, or bioinformatics, who are eager to apply their skills in a dynamic research environment with real world agricultural applications

This position will be based at the IRRI India Office, Hyderabad, India and may only be filled by permanent citizens of the India.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Support the development of a mid-density genotyping panel (HaploPanel) to accelerate rice breeding through haplotype-based genomic selection
• Analyze whole genome resequencing (WGRS) data to identify key genetic variants and haplotypes associated with important agronomic traits in rice
• Assist in validating the HaploPanel by correlating phenotypic and genotypic data across diverse rice populations and breeding lines
• Contribute to the design, optimization, and application of molecular tools for trait mapping, diversity assessment, and selection strategies
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to implement genomic technologies aimed at improving the efficiency and precision of rice improvement programs
• Supervise and mentor a team of researchers and support staff 
• Represent IRRI to a wide audience by presenting at conferences/meetings 
• Participate/contribute to visits, meetings, workshops, and any such events at ISAH and outside
• Lead and support fund generation activities by contributing to proposal writing and creating new opportunities 
• Any other tasks as assigned by Supervisor

Qualifications

• M.Sc in Biology (or) equivalent degree with minimum 55% marks or 
  equivalent grade. 
• A provisional degree at the time of joining is acceptable. 

Skills Required

Mandatory:

• Proven ability in Python and R programming languages 
• Proven ability to perform in multi-discipline and multi-cultural teams 
• Excellent scientific and analytical skills 
• Excellent interpersonal and organization skills 

Preferred:

• Experience in molecular breeding in rice 
• Publication record in peer reviewed journals
• Candidates have experience in Python and R programming languages, analyzing next generation sequencing data, and knowledge of meiosis mechanisms 

IRRI offers a highly extensive employee benefits package inclusive of globally-covered medical insurance, retirement plan, life and accident insurance and other allowances.

Join our team and be part of our story!

Application

Please click HERE to learn more and to apply online.

Please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
This position will remain open until filled.