The International Rice Genebank maintains the world’s largest collection of rice germplasm. Its main goals are to ensure the long-term preservation of all the germplasm and to make them available to all users worldwide. This position is in-charge of all the Center’s seed exchange activities in accordance with international laws and policies. The incumbent is responsible for backing up the Associate Scientist in supervising and overseeing staff, facilities, and operations to ensure that the collection is well preserved and the operations and facilities are within the international preferred standards.
Responsibilities:
Preparing a work plan and overall supervision of the Seed Distribution group
Receiving and recording all seed requests in the logbook
Handle correspondence with requestors, including acknowledging receipt of the request, responding to the requestor’s inquiries, informing the requestor of the necessary documents needed, and the availability status of the germplasm being requested
Searching and identifying the correct germplasm being requested in coordination with the different IRRI scientists/researchers
Recoding all the steps related to seed distribution in multiple databases (GRIMS, EBS)
Filing all seed request documents
Compiles and prepares a list of special germplasm for the different agronomic traits of interest to the user to facilitate seed request preparation.
Actively support/conduct periodic User Survey
Update the SOP as needed
Coordinates with the Seed Health Unit to facilitate germplasm exchange (incoming and outgoing), including handling issues related to import permits, phytosanitary, SMTA, fumigation etc .
Assists in preparing planting materials and samples for duplicate storage.
Supports the Associate Scientist in supervising the Research Technicians in seed processing, viability testing, seed packing, and storage, and ensuring that the required protocols are strictly implemented
Performs all other related duties that may be assigned from time to time by the Associate Scientist and Unit Head.
Communication with seed requestors, both internal and external.
Work closely with the seed requesters/depositors, other teams in GRC and units within RBI, especially the Seed Health Unit (SHU), staff within RBI and IRRI, and external collaborators and partners
Constantly monitor, evaluate, and provide recommendations to improve the routine activities of the Seed Distribution team
Coordinate with the required IRRI services and supplies to ensure the timely distribution of seeds
Regular updating with the Associate Scientist regarding the various activities covering from seed processing until distribution, ensuring that implementation of standard protocols
Quick turnaround of seed distribution based on completed requirements.
Ensures the timely preparation of planting materials for regeneration and characterization.
Write technical reports and generate documents on Genebank data (i.e. multiplication, characterization, and distribution).
Working closely with the Associate Scientist to ensure business continuity in the unit.
Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Major in Crop Science (Preferably with specialization in Plant Genetic Resources, Seed Technology, Crop Physiology, or Plant Breeding) with at least 2 years of relevant work experience and or exposure to seed technology or genetic resources management activities.
