Research Assistant - Conservation Agriculture Projects atRwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture (RICA)
The Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture (RICA) is a unique and innovative English language undergraduate institution dedicated to preparing the next generation of agricultural leaders of Rwanda and East Africa. Students at RICA engage in curricular and co-curricular learning opportunities emphasizing Conservation Agriculture and One Health principles, oral and written communication, leadership, and entrepreneurship.
In an experiential learning environment, students develop the knowledge and experience necessary for a wide range of careers in agriculture. Students at RICA experience the six Enterprises including Dairy, Poultry and Swine, Food Processing, Row and Forage Crops, Vegetable and Fruit Crops, Irrigation and Mechanization.
The curriculum is designed to incorporate threads of Innovation, Conservation, One Health Systems Thinking, and Entrepreneurship. Communication, One Health Systems Thinking, and Entrepreneurship are woven throughout the curriculum.
All RICA graduates will be innovative problem solvers able to operate farms and ranches, start agribusinesses, assume management roles in cooperatives, NGOs, and other agricultural enterprises, serve their communities as extension agents and technical and policy experts, or assume positions of agricultural leadership in Rwanda.
POSITION: RESEARCH ASSISTANT - Conservation Agriculture Projects
DURATION : 6 Months
NUMBER OF POSITIONS: 1
Job Description
The Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture (RICA) invites applications for the position of a Research Assistant focused on Conservation Agriculture (CA) Projects. The projects assess benefits of Conservation Agriculture practices on soil productivity and crop performance in Rwanda. Specifically, to compare farmer practices versus good practices centered around conservation agriculture. Best-bet practices will be identified through a multi-disciplinary approach of Soil science, Agronomy and cropping systems, and community outreach and extension services.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Conduct comprehensive literature reviews and research analysis for use in conservation agriculture settings.
Design, implement and oversee field trials and demonstrations including development of experimental protocols and management practices.
Data collection from field trials and experiments, and farm surveys.
Provide mentorship and research guidance to RICA students to support their academic and professional development.
Author scientific reports and research publications.
Maintain detailed records and inventory of project resources, including equipment and research materials.
Any other duties as will be assignment by the supervisor.
RUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Soil Science, Agronomy, Biological sciences or any related field.
SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES:
Prior experience in research is preferred, with at least three years in a related field.
Experience with experimental design and field trial management.
Experience in data collection, analysis and publication of results.
Familiarity with Conservation Agriculture and One Health principles.
Excellent technical and analytical skills; Proficiency in research software and data analysis tools (e.g., Genstat, Minitab, R, SPSS, Excel).
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.
Strong time-management skills.
HOW TO APPLY
Fill the information required, upload and submit the documents in English to the link provided below.
Cover Letter summarizing intent and suitability for the position.
List of Recommenders with contact information.
Kindly merge your Resume,CV ,Degree Certificate, and any other relevant documents into a single PDF file before uploading.
Application Link : https://rica.bamboohr.com/careers/122
Application review will begin March 31st,2025 and will continue until the position is filled.
Website: https://www.rica.rw/
