Research Assistant

Advanta Seeds is a global plant genetics company and subsidiary of UPL Limited, operating across Asia, Africa, Australia, Europe, North America, and South America. The company is a leader in sorghum, sunflower, rice, sweet corn, fodder crops, and vegetables.

Advanta Seeds is looking for an all-rounded and skilled Research Assistant who will report directly to the Senior Breeder and support crop trial and breeding activities. The ideal candidate should be adaptable, collaborative, and comfortable working in a fast-paced agricultural research environment.

1. Participate in crop trial agronomic activities including land preparation, planting, irrigation, fertilizer application, harvesting, and weighing.
2. Travel frequently to trial sites to support field activities.
3. Record accurate and timely trial data according to company procedures.
4. Conduct leaf and seed sampling for genetic purity testing.
5. Compile and organize trial data for breeder analysis.
6. Participate in nursery operations such as seed preparation, planting, and pollination.
7. Support forecasting of trial seed requirements.
8. Participate in seed inventory management and storage.
9. Solve operational and field-related challenges proactively.
10. Perform additional duties assigned by the line manager.

1. BSc degree in Agriculture, Plant Breeding, Genetics, Agronomy, or related field with at least two years experience OR MSc degree with at least one year experience.
2. Strong interest in plant breeding.
3. Knowledge of plant breeding and agronomic procedures.
4. Experience working with maize is an added advantage.
5. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
6. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
7. Ability to work in a multicultural team environment.
8. Must be a Kenyan citizen.