LUANAR Internship Opportunities 2025

LUANAR Internship Opportunities 2025 – The Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR) is implementing the BT Maize Project aimed at advancing agricultural innovations and sustainability in Malawi. To ensure the successful implementation of the project, we are seeking qualified and dedicated individuals to fill the following vacant internship positions:

1. TRIAL TECHNICIAN

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead laboratory and field experiments related to the development and performance analysis of BT. Maize
• Design, implement and optimize standard operating procedures for biotechnology research and GMO crop trials.
• Conduct tissue sampling, DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, and other molecular biology techniques for GMO verifications.
• Manage field experiments, including planting data collection, pest monitoring and harvest operations.
• Ensure adherence to biosafety regulations, environmental protocols and GMO testing
  standards.
• Compile, analyze, and interpret experimental data and prepare detailed technical reports.
• Maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory and field equipment.
• Train and supervise Research Assistants, Junior Technicians, and Interns.
• Work closely with Trial Scientists, Agronomists, and regulatory authorities to achieve project goals.
• Stay updated on advancements in GMO technology, pest resistance, and crop biotechnology.

QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE, AND ATTRIBUTES

• A BSc in Biotechnology. Those with an MSc in Agronomy or related fields will have an added.
• Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
• Practical experience in agricultural field trials, research, or related activities.
• Experience in managing large-scale trials and supervising technical teams.
• Experience in planting, monitoring, and harvesting research trials.
• Familiarity with data collection, management, and analysis tools relevant to agricultural research.
•  Experience in working with genetically modified crops or BT Maize is desirable.

2 RESEARCH ASSISTANT

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist in DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, and other molecular biology techniques required for GMO maize analysis.
• Participate in field trials, including planting, pest monitoring, data collection, and harvesting.
• Record accurate field and laboratory observations ensuring consistency and reliability in data gathering.
• Prepare plant tissue samples for laboratory analysis and assist with data entry.
• Help maintain and calibrate laboratory and field equipment under the guidance of the Trial Technician.
• Ensure that biosafety and environmental protocols are followed during all experiments and trials.
• Contribute to the preparation of technical reports and summaries based on field and lab results.
• Manage lab consumables and field supplies, ensuring availability for ongoing research activities.
• Collaborate with other project staff to ensure smooth workflow.
• Stay informed about Biotechnology tools and techniques relevant to the project

QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE, AND ATTRIBUTES

•  A BSc in Biotechnology.
• Experience in agricultural research, field trials, or laboratory work.
• Practical knowledge of data collection, management, and analysis in agricultural projects.
• Experience in conducting field trials, data sampling, and monitoring crop performance.
•  Familiarity with research tools and technologies, including statistical software and mobile data collection systems.

3. RESEARCH FIELD SUPERVISOR

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Supervise day-to-day field activities, including land preparation, planting, irrigation, pest control, and harvesting.
• Manage and coordinate field workers, ensuring tasks are completed efficiently and according to protocol.
•  Oversee the accurate collection of field data, including crop performance, pest infestation, and environmental conditions.
• Ensure all field activities adhere to research protocols, biosafety standards, and project objectives.
• Train field staff on best pest practices in handling BT GMO maize and data recording.
• Manage field logistics, such as procurement of inputs, allocation of tools, and transport arrangements.
•  Monitor pest and weed activity, implementing control measures and maintaining detailed records
• Ensure proper handling, storage, and maintenance of field equipment and tools.
• Ensure all field trials comply with GMO regulatory and environmental guidelines.
• Report field updates, challenges, and recommendations to the Trial Technician and Project
• Management Team.

QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE, AND ATTRIBUTES

• A Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology or other closely related fields.
• Experience in field research, including data collection and field team management.
• Proven ability to coordinate field logistics, including planning field visits, community engagement, and managing field challenges.
• Strong analytical and report-writing skills to compile and present field findings

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF ENGAGEMENT

All successful candidates will be engaged and remunerated in line with LUANAR Staff Regulations and Conditions of Service (2023) and BT Maize Project Terms and Conditions applicable to staff on an Internship Contract. Interns will be assigned specific tasks aligned with project objectives under the supervision of LUANAR and BT Maize Project officials.

MODE OF APPLICATION – LUANAR Internship Opportunities 2025

Hard copy application package should include an up-to-date Curriculum Vitae (CV), names and contact details of three traceable referees one of which should be of a current employer where applicable plus copies of certified academic and professional qualifications. The title of the position must be indicated on the envelope and sent to:

The University Registrar
Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources(LUANAR)
P.O. Box 219
LILONGWE

All applications should reach the UNIVERSITY no later than Friday, 14th February, 2025. Only shortlisted candidates will be acknowledged.

LUANAR is an equal-opportunity employer and strongly encourages applications from qualified candidates from diverse backgrounds. Only shortlisted candidates will be
contacted for interviews