Jobs at Agricultural Research Council

Description

• Manage the Residue Laboratory in diagnostic services and research output particularly for the National Chemical Residue Control and Monitoring Programme.
• Manage the Analytical Services of the PHZ programme together with personnel in the Residue section.
• Develop and validate analytical methods specifically in the fields of, LC-MS/MS and GC (ECD and MS); LCHRMS.
• Strong experience in sample preparation for biological and environmental samples.
• Drive external funding generation.
• Manage a group of technicians and scientists, plan, execute and supervise routine analytical testing of biological samples.
• Trouble shoot technical problems associated with the techniques and tests.
• Train and mentor technicians and young scientists.
• Plan and execute research projects.
• Lead scientific outputs (technical reports, scientific papers and present research findings at national and international conferences.
• Maintain ISO17025 accreditation of the laboratory according to SANAS requirements.
• Develop and manage the budget for the projects.
• Provide scientific guidance and input as well as mentoring/training postgraduate students, and visiting Scientists.
• Manage and maintain infrastructure and maintain accreditation status of the Residue Laboratory.

Requirements

• PhD or DTech in Analytical Chemistry/ Bioanalytical/ Chemistry/ Environmental Chemistry/ Biochemistry or related field. 
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in an analytical, food safety laboratory or research environment.
• Fundamental knowledge of chromatography, ability to work independently and under pressure to ensure that diagnostic samples are processed as required and according to a plan.
• Professional membership, national and international scientific recognition as evidenced by collaborations.
• Presentations at national and/or international scientific forums.
• Evidence of a track record of peer reviewed publications.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal).

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 12 SEPTEMBER 2025

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Description

• Initiating research, including conducting taxonomic and systematics research.
• Identifying, describing, and classifying medicinal plants using established taxonomic criteria.
• Developing and maintaining databases of medicinal plant specimens and associated taxonomic information.
• Developing and maintaining taxonomic keys for species identification.
• Writing and publishing scientific papers, reports, and other scholarly outputs.
• Managing resources including equipment and research materials, human resources and finances.
• Supporting strategic research collaboration and collaboration opportunities; these include.
• Presenting at national and international conferences, workshops.

Requirements

• PhD in Botany, Plant Taxonomy, or related discipline with at least 3 years relevant experience on Masters level.
• At least 3 years’ experience in a relevant scientific research environment, post MSc with a national record of accomplishment on the level of a researcher.
• Minimum 3-5 peer reviewed publications or number of publications should be equivalent to what was required from Masters and PhD level for their field respectively. 
• Familiarity with taxonomic tools, databases (e.g., BRAHMS, GBIF), and botanical nomenclature rules (ICN).
• Proven record of accomplishment for generating external income for projects in line with requirements on Masters and PhD level.
• Good communication skills verbal and written,
• Proficiency in MS Office suite,
• Registration with a scientific and professional body will be an added advantage,
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 10 SEPTEMBER 2025