Research Associate- Lab Support & Research at IITA - International Institute of Tropical Agriculture

Sample Management and Traceability

• Receive, verify label, and log all incoming samples from breeding programs against submission records and metadata.
• Assign unique sample identifiers using approved naming conventions and maintain chain-of- custody documentation.
• Manage and update the sample tracking system and laboratory dashboard to monitor sample status and analytical progress.
• Ensure appropriate sample storage conditions (fresh, frozen, freeze-dried) in line with SOPs.

Laboratory Analyses and Protocol Implementation

• Conduct biochemical, physicochemical, and functional analyses for cassava, yam and plantain/banana product profiles (e.g., dry matter, color, texture, swelling index, solubility).
• Perform instrumental texture analysis (e.g., Texture Profile Analysis, penetrometry, extensibility) and related measurements.
• Execute all analyses strictly according to approved RTBfoods/lITA SOPs; document deviations and propose improvements where necessary.
• Ensure equipment readiness, basic calibration checks, and proper use of laboratory instruments.

Sensory Evaluation and Panel Coordination

• Recruit, train, and coordinate sensory panellists for Quantitative Descriptive Analysis (QDA) and consumer preference testing.
• Organize and conduct sensory evaluation sessions for cassava (gari/eba), yam (boiled/pounded), and plantain (boiled/fried).
• Monitor panel performance, ensure adherence to protocols, and document sensory outputs.
• Support integration of sensory data with instrumental and biochemical datasets.

Sample Preparation and External Shipment

• Prepare fresh and processed samples for freeze-drying, storage, and shipment.
• Coordinate packaging and documentation for shipment of samples to partner laboratories (e.g., RHUL for metabolomics, CIRAD for aroma analysis).
• Maintain shipment logs and confirm receipt of samples by partner institutions.

Data Management, Reporting, and Coordination

• Compile, clean, and validate analytical and sensory data, ensuring consistency with sample IDs and metadata.
• Maintain organized, auditable datasets suitable for statistical analysis and reporting.
• Contribute to work planning, scheduling, and preparation of progress reports.
  Liaise with breeding teams to obtain complete metadata, confirm harvest schedules, and ensure timely sample transfer.

Requirements

QUALIFICATION:

• BSC/HND in Food Science, Nutrition, Biochemistry, Agricultural Science, or any other related field, with a minimum of six (6) years’ or MSc with a minimum of four (4) years’ experience performing a similar role in a well structured environment. Training in sensory analysis, laboratory quality systems, or ISO standards is required. Experience in supporting sensory studies or panel coordination, experience handling laboratory datasets and reporting are added advantage.

COMPETENCIES:

The ideal candidate must:

• Have technical knowledge and strong understanding of food quality analysis and laboratory procedures.
• Have ability to manage, clean, and organize datasets.
• Have high accuracy in sample handling and documentation.
• Have ability to coordinate across teams (breeding, lab, and partners.
• Have strong planning and time management skills.
• Have ability troubleshoot laboratory and operational issues.
• Have ability to work effectively within laboratory and project teams.
• Have experience with data visualization tools and QA/QC systems.
• Have experience working in multidisciplinary projects, managing multiple workflows simultaneously, experience in risk assessment and in international research collaborations.