Technical Support for Monitoring and Enhancing ICBA Gene Bank Operations

The International Center for Biosaline Agriculture(ICBA) is an international, non-profit agricultural research center established in 1999 through the visionary leadership of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) Fund, the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development (AFESD), and the Government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). ICBA is a unique applied agricultural research center in the world that is focused on marginal areas where an estimated 1.7 billion people live. It identifies, tests and introduces resource-efficient, climate-smart crops and technologies that are best suited to different regions affected by salinity, water scarcity and drought. Through its work, ICBA helps to improve food security and livelihoods for some of the poorest rural communities around the world. ICBA is an equal opportunity employer and appoints qualified staff regardless of race, creed, color, age, gender, religion or national origin. We demonstrate our commitment to each member of our team through a competitive benefits package designed to assist our employees to cover their needs and the needs of their immediate family members.

Job Summary

This assignment seeks technical expertise to strengthen gene bank operations by monitoring germplasm viability, conducting comprehensive germplasm characterization, completing a barcoding system for efficient sample retrieval, and completing a comprehensive seed bank inventory

Job Responsibilities

The primary objective of this assignment is to enhance the operational efficiency and scientific integrity of the gene bank through:

  • Monitoring the viability of stored germplasm.
  • Characterizing germplasm to document essential traits.
  • Implementing a barcode-based tracking system for samples.
  • Completing an accurate and accessible seed bank inventory

 

Under the general supervision of the supervisor, the technical support staff will help the project team with all project activities related to Assessment of Germplasm Viability:

  •  Design and implement protocols for regular monitoring of germplasm viability. Perform germination tests or other viability assays on seed samples. Establish threshold criteria for regeneration and replacement of low-viability samples.
  • Germplasm Characterization: Follow standardized protocols for morphological, and agronomic characterization of germplasm. Document and digitize essential traits for each accession in alignment with international standards.
  • Sample Barcoding System: Help to complete the barcode-based identification system for all seed samples in ICBA gene bank. Integrate barcoding into the existing database management system for seamless retrieval and tracking.
  • Comprehensive Seed Bank Inventory: Assist to complete physical and digital inventory of the seed bank.
  • Cross-check and reconcile existing records with actual holdings.
  • Identify and resolve discrepancies in the inventory.
  • Reporting : Provide periodic reports on progress, challenges, and recommendations. Prepare a final report.

 

Protocols and Guidelines: 

  • Comprehensive protocol documents for germplasm viability monitoring and characterization.
  • Viability Assessment Report: Summary of germplasm viability, including accessions requiring regeneration or replacement.
  • Characterization Database: A detailed database of characterized germplasm traits with standardized descriptors.
  • Barcode System Implementation: Functional barcoding system integrated with the gene bank's inventory management system.
  • Updated Seed Bank Inventory: Complete and accurate seed bank inventory report, with discrepancies resolved.
  • Final Assignment Report
Qualifications and Experience
  • Bachelor’s degree in Plant science, Biology, or a related field.
  • Advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in Genetics, Plant Science, or Agricultural Sciences
  • Experience working with gene banks, research institutions, or agricultural organizations.

     

Note - Monthly stipend is AED 3000, and the candidate should currently be available in the UAE with a valid residency.

 

 

Post Date
7 January 2025
Status
Closed
Vacancy Type
Technical support
Closing Date
14 January 2025
Location
ICBA, Dubai
Report To
Geneticist
Job Number
NA
Duration of the assignment
4 Months