Job: Research Assistant

Location: Lima
Deadline: Friday, 08 November 2013

Screening starts: Nov 08, 2013 |

Unit: CIFOR |

Location: Lima, Perú |

Type: NRS

International Potato Center (CIP) is seeking a Research Assistant with high level of commitment to coordinate laboratory activities for a hosted center, The Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR).

The position: The Research Assistant will be based in Lima, Peru and will report to a Scientist based at the regional office of CIFOR in Lima. The successful candidate will be responsible for laboratory management tasks and assist CIFOR's research team in generating and analyzing experimental data.

Duties and Accountabilities:

• Conduct all gas sample analysis using the gas chromatograph (GC), archive the results, and communicate them to Ph. D and MSc. students and supervisor.
• Support first level analysis of data to guarantee the results are accurate and complete.
• Supervise the well-functioning of the GC: purchase refill of gas, change hoses, organize annual maintenance with the provider.
• Support on administration and logistics operations to guarantee an effective supply chain for the projects' needs.
• Maintain all field and laboratory equipment, purchase new equipment needed and make an annual inventory.
• Coordinate laboratory and field equipment among users.
• Manage contracts and database of field assistants.
• Lead and supervise research activities in different settings to guarantee the experiments implementation and execution are being followed correctly.
• Conduct statistical research analysis on weather data from the field and maintain the database of weather data.
• Assist other researchers in gas sample collection in the field or during laboratory experiments (e.g. preparing soil samples), flux results calculation and summary statistics.
• Communication with local partners.
• Provide monthly budget and activities reports.
• Writing of a manual for operating the GC and the IRGA, writing of standard laboratory procedures (N extraction).

Selection Criteria:

• Bachelor's degree (with thesis completed) in Agronomy, Biology or related area. Preferably with post graduate studies.
• At least 3 years of experience required in similar position.
• Knowledge of field and laboratory equipment managing.
• Knowledge of data base management and statistical research analysis.
• Knowledge of experiments executions in different settings.
• Advanced level of MS Office.
• Advanced written and oral communication skills in English.
• Demonstrated ability to complex analysis, problem solving, and detail oriented.
• Time management and ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong communications and organizational skills.

Conditions: This position is local and thus limited to Peruvian nationals and permanent residents. The employment contract will be for a one-year term (with a three month probation period) with the possibility of renewal. CIFOR prides itself on its collegial and supportive working environment, which allows space for personal and professional growth.

Applications: Applicants should apply by email, sending a letter of interest, a full C.V., and the names and contact information of three referees knowledgeable about the candidate's professional qualifications and work experience to: cip-recruitment@cgiar.org. The reference name of the position should be clearly marked on the subject line of the email message. Screening of applications will begin on November 08, 2013 and will continue until the post is filled.

All applications will be acknowledged, only short listed candidates will be contacted.

Learn more about CIP by accessing our web site at

Learn more about CIFOR by accessing our web site at

More Info and Application