The International Potato Center (CIP) is seeking to recruit a highly motivated crop Improvement Intern to support hybrid breeding research and operations at the PQS-Muguga station in Nairobi, Kenya. This internship is part of the project deliverables under the Genetic Innovation – Public-Private Partnership (GI-PPP) project and is designed to provide the selected candidate with hands-on training in potato hybrid breeding.
About CIP
CIP is a member of the CGIAR, a global research partnership for a food-secure future. CGIAR science is dedicated to transforming food, land, and water systems in climate crisis, and it is carried out by 15 CGIAR Centers/Alliances in close collaboration with hundreds of partners, including national and regional research institutes, civil society organizations, academia, development organizations, and the private sector.
About the role
The Crop Improvement Intern will contribute to the design and implementation of a defined research experiment or study within CIP’sPotato breeding program. The intern will work closely with the breeding team, gaining practical exposure to greenhouse operations, experimental data collection, and analytical methods.
The position is based in Nairobi, Kenya (PQS-Muguga station), and reports to the Potato Breeding Team Lead.
Key responsibilities
Research & Experimentation
- Support the design and implementation of an experiment or research study on a topic defined in consultation with the intern and the supervising scientist
- Conduct literature reviews and contribute to the development of research protocols
- Collect field and greenhouse data in accordance with established experimental protocols
Data Analysis & Reporting
- Compile, clean, and manage experimental datasets using appropriate tools, including R
- Analyze data, interpret results, and draw conclusions relevant to hybrid breeding improvement
- Prepare technical reports and presentations summarizing findings and recommendations
- Contribute to documentation of best practices and lessons learned within the breeding programme
Greenhouse Operations Support
- Assist with day-to-day operations in the breeding greenhouse at PQS-Muguga
- Support plant maintenance, crossing activities, and seed management tasks as required
- Work collaboratively with the breeding team and field staff on operational activities
Requirements
What are we looking for?
Education
- Bachelor’s degree (BSc) in Agriculture, Plant Breeding, Agronomy, Plant Science, or a closely related field
- Currently enrolled in a plant breeding/agronomy graduate program is an advantage
- Desirable experience in data management and analysis, preferably using R or similar statistical software
- Prior exposure to plant breeding activities, whether through coursework, research attachments, or practical experience
- Desirable experience in data collection within a research or agricultural field setting
- Desirable internship experience with similar activities
- Advanced level of MS Office and intermediate knowledge of database work
Skills & Competencies
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate data and research results into practical recommendations.
- Detail-oriented with good organizational skills and a willingness to learn.
- Advanced written and spoken English; fluency in Swahili (official language).
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
- Core competencies: innovation, accountability, teamwork, and integrity.
- Specific competencies: analytical thinking, planning & organization, communication, and continuous improvement.
Benefits
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, a recent World Food Prize Winner and awarded with the Al-Sumait Award for its Orange Flesh Sweet potato work in Africa
- 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 network of 15 research centers that are mostly located in developing countries and supported by more than 50 donor members.
What are we offering?
- A structured one-year internship with hands-on research and breeding experience
- Stipend commensurate with the internship level and institutional guidelines
- Mentorship and skills development within a world-class international research environment
- Work in an equal and diverse workplace
