Research Technician II

The International Rice Research Institute is seeking a Research Technician II for its Sustainable Impact through Rice-based Cropping Systems Department in Los Baños, Philippines. The role involves supporting soil health assessments, conducting laboratory analyses, and collaborating with a multidisciplinary team. Candidates must be permanent citizens of the Philippines and have relevant experience in soil laboratory analyses and fieldwork. The position is not remote and requires on-site presence.
About IRRI

The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) is dedicated to reducing poverty and hunger through rice science; improving the health and welfare of rice farmers and consumers; and protecting the rice-growing environment for future generations. IRRI is an independent, nonprofit, research and educational institute, founded in 1960 by the Ford and Rockefeller foundations with support from the Philippine government. The institute, headquartered in Los Baños, Philippines, has offices in 17 rice-growing countries in Asia and Africa, and over 1,000 staff.

Working with in-country partners, IRRI develops advanced rice varieties that yield more grain and better withstand pests and disease as well as flooding, drought, and other harmful effects of climate change.

Job Purpose

Within IRRI, the Sustainable Impact through Rice-based Cropping Systems (SIRS) Department pioneers innovative solutions to enhance the productivity and sustainability of rice systems. Soil health and nutrient management are key factors in achieving this goal, as they directly influence both crop productivity and GHG emissions. Within the department, the research unit “Climate-resilient farming systems” is seeking a research technician in the field of “Sustainable Soils” to join a multidisciplinary team of scientists, researchers, and technicians working across Asia and Africa. Under the supervision of the Postdoctoral Fellow in Soil Science, the Research Technician II will, in collaboration with colleagues of IRRI’s Soil laboratory, support ongoing efforts in assessing soil health and improving nutrient management.

This position will be based at the IRRI Headquarters, Los Baños, Philippines and may only be filled by permanent citizens of the Philippines.

Roles and Responsibilities

Support ongoing efforts to improve and innovate methods for assessing soil health through spectroscopy
Aid in acquiring infrared spectra for soil and plant samples.
Conduct conventional wet chemistry analyses (pH, total C and N, available phosphorus, sulfate, etc.)
Contribute to achieving the laboratory, field, and greenhouse milestones of the Sustainable Soils sub-unit.
Provide support for laboratory, field, and greenhouse operations to ensure the timely completion of all project activities.
Support scholars and interns
Collect, register, and process soil and plant samples for diffuse reflectance spectroscopy analysis
Properly archive soil and plant samples for future use
Maintain cleanliness and order in the spectroscopy laboratory
Perform any other relevant duties as assigned by the supervisor from time to time

Qualifications

At least a high school graduate with a minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience

Skills Required

Mandatory

Experience in analytical soil laboratory analyses (preparing reagents and standard solutions for soil and water analysis)
Experience in soil sampling in the fields
Experience in data collection in the fields
Experience in entering and recording soil and water analysis data
Experience in operating and routine maintenance of laboratory instruments and equipment
Basic knowledge of computer use
Meticulous and a team player

Preferred

Experience in soil spectroscopy analysis
Experience in extracting soil samples' nutrients
Experience in rice production

IRRI offers a highly extensive employee benefits package inclusive of globally-covered medical insurance, retirement plan, life and accident insurance and other allowances.

Join our team and be part of our story

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

This position will remain open until filled.