Research Assistant

The
International Potato Center (CIP)
is a global, non-profit research organization that works to improve food security, nutrition, and incomes in developing countries through research and innovation in root and tuber crops—primarily
potatoes and sweet potatoes
.

CIP's focus areas encompass a range of strategic priorities aimed at improving agricultural systems and livelihoods. These include
crop improvement
through the development of climate-resilient, high-yielding, and disease-resistant varieties of potatoes and sweet potatoes;
sustainable farming
by promoting environmentally friendly and resource-efficient agricultural practices; and
nutrition and food systems
, particularly through the use of biofortified crops. CIP also works to strengthen
value chains and market access
by supporting smallholder farmers in building inclusive and profitable value chains, while enhancing
climate resilience
by helping farming systems adapt to the impacts of climate change.

The International Potato Center (CIP) is looking for a dedicated and skilled
Research Assistant (Seed Technologist)
who is passionate about fieldwork and agricultural development. This role will focus on supporting an innovative potato development initiative aimed at strengthening seed systems and improving potato productivity. The position requires hands-on engagement with farmers, partners, and research activities to ensure the successful implementation of project objectives. The selected candidate will be based in Agra, providing an opportunity to work closely with local communities while contributing to impactful agricultural advancements.

Role
This position provides a unique chance to play a meaningful role in advancing agricultural research that directly addresses pressing challenges in food production and sustainability. By contributing to innovative solutions, the work will support improved farming practices, higher crop yields, and resilience against climate change. The outcomes of this research have the potential to enhance food security, reduce poverty, and promote sustainable livelihoods for farming communities in the region. Ultimately, the role allows for both professional growth and the opportunity to make a tangible impact on regional development and wellbeing. The key deliverables / expectations from the position will be:

• RESPONSIBILITIES
• Seed System Development & Management
• Establish, monitor, and scale up quality seed potato production systems (G0 to G3 stage).
• Manage tissue culture labs, screenhouses, aeroponics facilities, or minituber production units.
• Implement best practices for seed multiplication, storage, grading, and disease-free maintenance.
• Technical Expertise & Quality Control
• Conduct field inspections, disease indexing, and virus testing (ELISA, PCR, etc.).
• Maintain seed health and genetic purity across multiplication stages.
• Research & Innovation
• Support varietal evaluation, adaptability studies, and early generation seed management.
• Introduce and optimize innovative technologies such as true potato seed (TPS), aeroponics, and digital monitoring tools.
• Develop and test protocols for large-scale seed production under local agro-climatic conditions.
• Capacity Building & Extension
• Train farmers, technicians, and seed growers on seed standards, GAP (Good Agricultural Practices), and storage.
• Provide technical guidance to contract growers and partner organizations.
• Develop manuals, SOPs, and training materials for seed potato value chain actors.
• Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement
• Liaise with government agencies, certification authorities, and research institutes (ICAR, SAUs, state DoH etc.).
• Work with private sector companies, NGOs, and cooperatives on seed multiplication programs.
• Support public–private partnerships for seed supply chain development.
• Data & Reporting
• Document production protocols, yield performance, and quality analysis.
• Maintain records for traceability and certification audits.
• Prepare technical reports, publications, and presentations.