N-26-32 Research Assistant

The International Potato Center (CIP) is seeking a Research Assistant with a high level of commitment to support the head of Plant Pathology Laboratory with the coordination and implementation of activities related to molecular testing at the laboratory.

The Center: CIP is a not-for-profit international agricultural research-for-development organization with a focus on potato sweetpotato and Andean roots and tubers. Its vision is of roots and tubers improving the lives of the poor. CIP is dedicated to achieving food security improved well-being and gender equity for poor people in root and tuber farming and food systems of the developing world. CIP works with partners to contribute high quality science technology and capacity strengthening for sustainable science-based solutions. CIP is headquartered in Lima Peru with staff and activities in over 30 locations across Asia Africa and Latin America. CIP is a member of the CGIAR Consortium. CGIAR is a global agriculture research partnership for a food secure future. Its science is carried out by the 15 research centers who are members of the CGIAR Consortium in collaboration with hundreds of partner organizations.

The position: This position will be based in Lima Peru (La Molina) and will report to the Coordinator of Plant Pathology Laboratory. The selected candidate will coordinate and conduct activities that are carried out at the Laboratory on a daily basis.

Key responsibilities:

- Extraction of total nucleic acids and siRNAs and libraries preparation from samples of potato/sweetpotato and ARTCs (Andean roots and tuber crops).

- Continue with the scheme of validation of PCR & RT-PCR for the detection of ARTCs viruses. Identification analysis and solution of inconsistencies to conclude the validation process.

- Bioinformatic analyses of sequencing data of potato and sweetpotato germplasm samples for sRSA routine testing

- Bioinformatic analyses of sequencing data of ARTCs for validation of sRSA testing.

- Inter-laboratory testing of viruses by sRSA (includes verification by PCR of the virus (s) reported by HTS)

- Design of primers for specific detection of new virus species or strains bacteria or insects in potato sweetpotato ARTCs and other prioritized crops.

- Standardization of PCR RT-PCR and/or qPCR for the detection of pathogens in priority crops as part of the new service development plan

- Upload the revised results of molecular analyses performed by the Laboratory technician and their own.

- Maintain the order and cleaning of Laboratory facilities and equipment records of dataloggers of critical equipment as well as preventive/corrective maintenance and calibration records.

- Generate reports of activities as per request: weekly bi-weekly or monthly.

- Support the Coordinator of the lab with administrative activities: request quotations to suppliers for equipment maintenance purchase of reagents and/or consumables update the master file of annual expenses and recoveries

Biologist or Agronomy engineer (w / professional title) with excellent experience in Molecular Plant Pathology.

MSc degree on Molecular biology is a plus

• 03-year experience on molecular techniques (RNA extraction PCR RT-PCR qPCR LAMP cloning sequencing etc.) is a critical requisite
  
• Demonstrated knowledge on the use of bioinformatics tools / softwares (MegAlign Velvet MAC Geneious etc.) is required
  

01-year experience in collecting and managing plant pathogens at laboratory and greenhouse level.

Experience in handling and maintenance of plants at greenhouse level is highly desirable.

• Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills.
  
• Demonstrated ability on problem solving and capability to work independently.
  

• Hard working with ability to handle multiple work activities in an effective and satisfactory manner.
  

• Excellent Spanish written and verbal communication skills and intermediate English skills are required.
  
• Advance level of Microsoft office (Excel Word and PPT as the basics)
  

Why should you consider this opportunity

CIP is a global and reputable international organization that has a strong state-of-the-art R&D background.

CIP is dedicated to achieving food security improving nutrition and well-being and gender equity for poor people in roots tubers farming and food systems in the developing world.

CIP is a member of the CGIAR a global partnership that unites international organizations engaged in research about food security. CGIAR research aims to reduce rural poverty increase food security improve human health and nutrition and sustainable management of natural resources.

What are we offering

CIP provides the opportunity to work in a prestigious international organization.

Excellent working environment.

In and out buses for different routes in Lima

Comprehensive insurance coverage.

6 months-term agreements with possibility of renewal.

Work in an equal and diverse workplace.

How to apply

Please visit the following link: to submit your cover letter and a full C.V. along with your references (preferable recent supervisors). Internal candidates are welcome and encouraged to apply for this job opportunity. Nevertheless we highly encourage all interested candidates to participate in this exciting and competitive process. The deadline for the receipt of applications is July 15 2026.

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Learn more about CIP by accessing our web site at

CIP is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified women and professionals from developing countries are particularly encouraged to apply.