Research Associate II - STEM Cell Biology, Organoids, and Biobanking

About the Role

The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) is seeking a Research Associate II - STEM Cell Biology, Organoids, and Biobanking to support laboratory operations, research, and logistics. This position involves establishing primary cell line cultures, maintaining stem cell cultures, and contributing to the conservation of livestock or aquatic genetic resources.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide logistical support for field activities, including sampling and processing
• Support laboratory operations and the establishment of primary cell line cultures
• Maintain and monitor stem cell cultures and biobanked cell lines to ensure quality and viability
• Perform organoid differentiation in line with established protocols
• Conduct biobanking activities, including cryopreservation and sample storage
• Conduct molecular biology analyses and support cellular characterization processes
• Maintain accurate data records and support data management and Digital Sequence Information (DSI) processes
• Ensure compliance with project documentation requirements, laboratory biosafety standards, and quality assurance protocols
• Support capacity building initiatives and collaborate effectively with WorldFish and NARS project partners
• Support stakeholder engagement activities, including training sessions and outreach initiatives
• Implement and promote adherence to biosafety and ethical research protocols
• Contribute to the drafting of manuscripts and publications
• Perform any other related duties as may be required

Requirements and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or diploma in molecular biology, biotechnology, animal science, cell biology, genetics, biomedical sciences, veterinary sciences, aquatic biology or related disciplines
• Two years of relevant experience with a degree or four years of relevant experience with a diploma
• Strong laboratory experience in molecular biology and biotechnology workflows
• Experience in sterile tissue culture techniques
• Knowledge of molecular biology methods (PCR, nucleic acid extraction, gel electrophoresis)
• Experience handling biological samples and laboratory equipment
• Ability to maintain detailed laboratory records
• Good understanding of biosafety and laboratory quality systems
• Experience with stem cell culture or organoid systems
• Experience in cryopreservation and biobanking
• Familiarity with livestock or aquatic genetic resources
• Knowledge of genomics or sequencing workflows
• Experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS)
• Familiarity with ABS, DSI, or biodiversity governance frameworks