Job Title: Research Associate (Seed Bank operations)
Company: Centre for Ecosystem Restoration- Kenya (CER-K)
Location: Limuru, Kenya
Job Type: Temporary, on site – 4 months
Expected salary: KES 20,000-25,000 (depending on experience)
About Us:
CER-K is a Kenyan non-profit ecosystem restoration organisation, operating in the highlands, savannah, and coastal regions. The company actively reverses degradation and repairs ecosystems through action-oriented research and evidence-based restoration at the growing research and restoration hubs. CER-K collaborates with small and large restoration projects, research organizations, funding bodies, institutions, and local communities to achieve the highest biodiversity standards.
Position Overview:
CER-K is currently looking for a Research Associate (Seed Bank operations)to join our team. The research associate will be based in the Highlands Hub (Brackenhurst Conference and Retreat Centre – Limuru, Kenya). They will work closely with the resource manager and the seed scientist who provides technical backing. Additionally, they will play a pivotal role in the day-to-day maintenance of the seed bank, seed quality control, seed packaging, seed sales, ongoing research work and training of visitors.
Key Responsibilities:
- Receive seeds occasionally from partner seed collectors.
- Ensure seed quality control from the receiving and documentation stage.
- Ensure further quality control through testing (viability-cut test/germination tests, purity, cleaning, TSW or propagation of seeds in the nursery).
- Drying the seed to the right Relative Humidity estimated using a data logger.
- Seed weighing and packaging for storage.
- Data Management: seed bank database, seed procurement, distribution.
- Participate in seed sales and distribution.
- Seed bank maintenance work;
- Check equipment functionality (e.g. data loggers and dehumidifiers).
- Temperature control.
- Clean the seed bank every Friday.
- Conduct and participate in seed studies.
- Conduct training for visitors from different research institutes both in campus and off campus (The EDU Africa partnership and working with communities and restoration organisations to ensure biodiversity).
Qualifications:
- Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Seed Science, Biology, Botany or a related field.
- Experience working in a native tree seed industry is preferred.
- Preferred experience in environmental, conservation, or restoration projects.
- Proficient with International Standards
- Quick learner with strong attention to detail.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
How to Apply:
If you are a dedicated and enthusiastic individual ready to embark on a rewarding career journey with CER-K, please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your qualifications, experiences and interest in this position.
Send your application to [email protected] and CC [email protected].
You may also reach out to our hotline at 0793565629,
CER-K is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
