Research and Development Officer

Job Summary

The overall purpose of this job is to conduct agricultural research, develop innovative farming techniques, and improving crop production methods to enhance yield, quality, and sustainability. This involves trials, data collection, analysis, and implementation of new agricultural technologies, recommending Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and industry standards.

Job Details

a)    Design and execute crop trials, evaluate different crop varieties, fertilizers, pest control methods, and irrigation techniques to determine the most effective practices;
b)    Gather and analyze field data on crop performance, soil conditions, climate factors, and pest management to generate insights that inform production decisions;
c)    Research and recommend innovative agricultural practices, such as precision farming, organic cultivation, and soil fertility improvement, to optimize productivity and sustainability;
d)    Work closely with the agronomist to assess plant growth, nutrient uptake, disease resistance, and environmental stress tolerance in various crop varieties;
e)    Handle new varieties and research before they can proceed to production.
f)    Selection and build-up of clean mother-stock 
g)    Responsible for and managing the elite mother-stalk research area
h)    Conduct a  Rinsate Analysis of on spray booms and knapsacks to ensure they are not contaminated;
i)    Conduct trials on new and existing pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers to determine effectiveness, ensure compliance with industry regulations, and minimize environmental impact;
j)    Research biological and chemical control methods to develop sustainable and eco-friendly pest and disease management strategies;
k)    Coordinate soil, water compost and plants sampling, analyze test results, and recommend appropriate amendments to improve soil health and optimize irrigation strategies;
l)    Participate in plant breeding activities by evaluating desirable traits, assisting in hybrid development, and conducting field assessments of new plant varieties;
m)    Conduct predators breeding to help in combating pests 
n)    Maintain accurate records of all trials, prepare detailed reports, and share research outcomes with the agronomy team and management for decision-making;
o)    Monitor emerging trends, and best practices in research, development, and sustainable farming to integrate innovations into farm operations;
p)    Adhere to industry regulations, certification standards, and environmental policies in all research and field trials to meet compliance requirements;
q)    Assist in training the production team on new agricultural practices, research findings, and improved farming techniques to enhance productivity;
r)    Research and recommend climate-smart agricultural practices to mitigate the effects of extreme weather, drought, and other environmental challenges;
s)    Ensure all research tools, trial plots, and laboratory equipment are well-maintained and used efficiently; and
t)    Any other responsibilities assigned to the job holder by the supervisor from time to time.

Requirements

• A minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture or related field from a recognized institution 
• Relevant certification is an added advantage.
• A minimum of three (3) years’ experience in relevant or similar role.
• Knowledge of plant physiology, soil science, and agronomy.
• Experience in designing and conducting field trials.
• Proficiency in data collection, statistical analysis, and reporting.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements in agriculture.

About Company

Grant Thornton Human Resources Solutions Limited

https://www.grantthornton.co.ke/

At Grant Thornton, we help dynamic organisations around the world unlock their potential for growth. With 8 partners and more than 300 team members, our firm dates back 40 years. Offering Assurance, Tax and Advisory services to clients in Kenya and across Africa, we set ourselves high standards in delivering value to the clients in a timely manner. Many new entrants to the Kenyan and African emerging markets choose us as their financial partners to give them a solid foundation in an exciting new area of business opportunity. We distinguish ourselves as a workplace that encourages disruptive thinking, attracts and retains the right kind of people to deliver an exceptional client experience. We are keen on attracting enough of the right talent for our global organization. We actively seek out people who share our purpose and values, enjoy our collaborative culture and are energized to commit their time and effort to deliver our distinctive client experience.