Description

The Pacific Community (SPC) is the principal scientific and technical organisation in the Pacific region, supporting development since 1947. We are an international development organisation owned and governed by our 27 country and territory members. In pursuit of sustainable development to benefit Pacific people, our organisation works across more than 25 sectors. We are known for our knowledge and innovation in such areas as fisheries science, public health surveillance, geoscience, and conservation of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture.

The Land Resources Division (LRD) provides effective expert scientific advice, capacity building and services on conservation, development and utilization of plant genetic resources, forest and landscape management, resilient agricultural systems, diversification of livelihood strategies and access to markets to maintain ecosystem services and improve land productivity and the food, nutrition security and resilience of Pacific communities. LRD has expertise in genetic resource conservation, resilient agriculture, biosecurity, pest and disease management, agricultural extension, plant pathology, entomology and animal health. It collaborates with governments, regional organisations, civil society and other SPC divisions to pinpoint the needs and priorities of Pacific countries and communities and provide technical expertise to address them. This mission is realized through four main thematic work areas, or pillars, and a progressively integrated approach to programming that works towards achieving SPC’s development goals.

The role – Technician – Genebank (In-Vitro) isresponsible for maintaining the crop and tree collections in the Centre for Pacific Crops and Trees (CePaCT) genebank ensuring it is readily available for distribution to both international and regional requestors. Additionally, the role will provide essential support for priority research to enhance the genebank activities.

The key responsibilities of the role include:

Effective and efficient conservation and distribution of CePaCT crop and tree collections

• Carry out all relevant operations and procedures as per Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in place to ensure the efficient and effective establishment and maintenance (conservation) of CePaCT collections.
• Regular monitoring and mass propagation of germplasm distribution stocks to meet requests from partners and collaborators.

Support with the implementation of research activities

• Assist the senior technicians in the implementation of research activities.

Carry out routine laboratory operations

• Ensure all laboratory procedures are carried out including no compromise to proper hygiene and safety of the facilities.

Program support and other duties

• Actively participate and contribute to related administrative activities of the CePaCT Genebank team.

For a more detailed account of the key responsibilities, please refer to the online job description.

Key selection criteria

Qualifications

• A tertiary diploma in biological science (biology, biochemistry, agriculture) and or relevant laboratory qualification.

Technical expertise

• A minimum 2 years of relevant experience.
• Knowledge and skills on plant tissue culture technology and laboratory sterile procedures.
• Sound knowledge and experience on the propagation methods for selected samples, pests, diseases, etc.
• Working knowledge of laboratory data analysis software.
• Self-motivated, disciplined, and able to work effectively (individually and within a team environment).
• Good attention to detail and excellent computer skills.
• Be able to develop new ideas and provide a solution to problems.
• Willingness to work outside of normal working hours to meet deadlines with good ability to handle workloads when required.

Language skills

• Excellent English communication skills (oral and written).

Interpersonal skills and cultural awareness

• Ability to work in a multicultural, inclusive and equitable environment.

Salary, terms and conditions

Contract Duration – Until 31 December 2027 – subject to renewal depending on funding and performance.

Remuneration – The Technician – Genebank (In-Vitro) is a band 6 position in SPC’s 2024 salary scale, with a commencing taxable salary range of FJD 1,892-2,365 per month, plus local staff benefits. An offer of appointment for an initial contract will normally be made in the lower half of this range, with due consideration given to experience and qualifications. Progression within the salary scale will be based on annual performance reviews.

Recruitment principles –SPC’s recruitment is based on merit and fairness, and candidates are competing in a selection process that is fair, transparent and non-discriminatory. SPC is an equal-opportunity employer, and is committed to cultural and gender diversity, including bilingualism, and will seek to attract and appoint candidates who respect these values. Due attention is given to gender equity and the maintenance of strong representation from Pacific Island professionals. If two interviewed candidates are ranked equal by the selection panel, preference will be given to the Pacific Islander.

Applicants will be assured of complete confidentiality in line with SPC’s Privacy Policy.