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-Cover crops project

DURATION : 12 Months

Position Overview

The Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture (RICA) invites applications for the position of a Research Assistant focused for COVER CROP POJECT. The project will assess benefits and performance of legume cover crops for improved productivity and sustainability of maize-based cropping systems in Rwanda. The study will identify suitable and preferred cover crop species/varieties through a multi-disciplinary (Agronomy and cropping systems, Soils sciences, and community outreach and extension services).

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct comprehensive literature reviews and research analysis use of cover crops in agricultural systems
• Design, implement and oversee field trials including development of experimental protocols and management practices.
• Data collection from field trials 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 will be assignment by the supervisor.

RUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, Agronomy, or botany.
• Candidates who have completed Course work for a Master of Science degree will have an added advantage

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES:

• At least three years of experience conducting field trial research.
• Experience with experimental design and field trial management
• Experience in data collection, analysis and publication of results
• Knowledge of interpreting statistical analysis data.
• Familiarity with conservation agriculture and One Health principles.
• Proficiency in research software and data analysis tools (e.g., R, SPSS, Excel)
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.

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/119

Application review will begin February 28^th ,2025 and will continue until the position is filled.