About the Role
The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is seeking a dedicated and experienced Senior Germplasm Health Officer to join our team in Nigeria. In this vital role, you will safeguard agricultural biodiversity by ensuring strict adherence to phytosanitary regulations, managing seed health testing, and facilitating the safe domestic and international movement of vital crop germplasm.
Key Responsibilities- Coordinate phytosanitary documentation and import/export permits with the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS).
- Conduct comprehensive field, screenhouse, and laboratory inspections to monitor pest and disease incidence.
- Perform advanced seed health testing, pathogen indexing, and quality assessments for clonal and seed crops.
- Develop, validate, and implement diagnostic protocols and maintain pathogen culture collections.
- Supervise laboratory personnel, interns, and trainees while ensuring strict compliance with biosafety and QMS standards.
- Maintain accurate databases for quarantine activities, generate technical reports, and track service costs.
- Master Degree in Pathology, Microbiology, Plant Science, Biotechnology, or a related discipline.
- Minimum of four (4) years of professional experience in seed health and phytosanitation of germplasm.
- Demonstrated expertise in seed health testing, microscopy, and molecular diagnostics.
- Sound knowledge of NAQS and National Plant Protection Organizations (NPPOs) regulations.
- Familiarity with CGIAR Germplasm Health Unit operations and advanced imaging diagnostic tools.
- Strong data management, reporting, and leadership capabilities.
We offer a highly competitive remuneration package with attractive benefits, professional growth opportunities, and a collaborative multicultural working environment in our modern campus facilities.