About the Role

We are seeking a National Performance Trial Specialist to lead National Performance Trials (NPTs), ensuring scientific integrity through robust trial design and statistical analysis while building capacity by teaching and mentoring STB trainees.

Responsibilities

Lead National Performance Trial Design & Execution

• Design and implement high-quality National Performance Trials (NPTs), ensuring scientifically robust experimental designs and field protocols.
• Oversee trial implementation from planting through harvest, working closely with field teams to ensure accurate data collection and adherence to research standards.
• Maintain compliance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), institutional guidelines, and international research best practices.

Deliver Advanced Data Analysis & Research Insights

• Develop standardized data collection tools and quality assurance protocols for research teams.
• Analyze complex trial data using statistical software to generate reliable insights and recommendations.
• Create clear data visualizations, dashboards, and technical outputs that support evidence-based decision-making.

Build Research Capacity & Technical Expertise

• Deliver training on experimental design, data management, and statistical analysis within the Seed Technology & Business (STB) Program.
• Mentor trainees and provide technical guidance on research proposals, trial design, and data interpretation.
• Promote best practices in agricultural research and strengthen the technical capacity of field and research teams.

Communicate Research Findings & Support Innovation

• Prepare high-quality technical reports, presentations, and research briefs for internal and external stakeholders.
• Translate scientific findings into practical recommendations for seed production, variety evaluation, and industry partners.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve research tools, data systems, and operational processes.

Drive Continuous Improvement in Research Quality

• Identify opportunities to strengthen trial methodologies, data quality, and analytical approaches.
• Support the adoption of digital tools and innovative solutions that improve research efficiency and decision-making.
• Contribute to advancing national seed research and variety evaluation through continuous learning and scientific excellence.

Career Growth and Development

We have a strong culture of constant learning and we invest in developing our people. You’ll have weekly check-ins with your manager, access to mentorship and training programs, and regular feedback on your performance. We hold career reviews every six months, and set aside time to discuss your aspirations and career goals. You’ll have the opportunity to shape a growing organization and build a rewarding long-term career.

Qualifications

Across all roles, these are the general qualifications we look for. For this role specifically, you will have:

• Bachelor's or advanced degree in Agriculture, Plant Science, Statistics, Biometry, Agronomy, Seed Science, or a related field.
• At least 2 years of experience in agricultural research, trial management, or applied statistical analysis.
• Experience with agricultural research reporting and data analysis is a strong advantage.
• Advanced analytical skills with experience using statistical software such as R, Genstat, SAS, STATA, or similar.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple research activities simultaneously.
• Strong understanding of experimental design, quantitative and qualitative research methods, and data quality assurance.
• Fluency in Kinyarwanda and English.

Preferred Start Date

As soon as possible

Job Location

Bugesera, Rwanda

Benefits

Health insurance, housing, and comprehensive benefits.

Contract Duration

2 years, renewable with a high chance based on good performance.

Eligibility

This role is only open to citizens or permanent residents of Rwanda.

• Design and implement high-quality National Performance Trials (NPTs), ensuring scientifically robust experimental designs and field protocols.
• Oversee trial implementation from planting through harvest, working closely with field teams to ensure accurate data collection and adherence to research standards.
• Maintain compliance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), institutional guidelines, and international research best practices.
• Develop standardized data collection tools and quality assurance protocols for research teams.
• Analyze complex trial data using statistical software to generate reliable insights and recommendations.
• Create clear data visualizations, dashboards, and technical outputs that support evidence-based decision-making.
• Deliver training on experimental design, data management, and statistical analysis within the Seed Technology & Business (STB) Program.
• Mentor trainees and provide technical guidance on research proposals, trial design, and data interpretation.
• Promote best practices in agricultural research and strengthen the technical capacity of field and research teams.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports, presentations, and research briefs for internal and external stakeholders.
• Translate scientific findings into practical recommendations for seed production, variety evaluation, and industry partners.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve research tools, data systems, and operational processes.
• Identify opportunities to strengthen trial methodologies, data quality, and analytical approaches.
• Support the adoption of digital tools and innovative solutions that improve research efficiency and decision-making.
• Contribute to advancing national seed research and variety evaluation through continuous learning and scientific excellence.

• Statistical analysis
• Experimental design
• Data management
• Project management
• Data visualization
• Mentoring
• Training delivery
• Agricultural research
• Statistical software (R, Genstat, SAS, STATA, or similar)
• Kinyarwanda fluency
• English fluency

• Bachelor's or advanced degree in Agriculture, Plant Science, Statistics, Biometry, Agronomy, Seed Science, or a related field.
• At least 2 years of experience in agricultural research, trial management, or applied statistical analysis.
• Experience with agricultural research reporting and data analysis is a strong advantage.
• Advanced analytical skills with experience using statistical software such as R, Genstat, SAS, STATA, or similar.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple research activities simultaneously.
• Strong understanding of experimental design, quantitative and qualitative research methods, and data quality assurance.
• Fluency in Kinyarwanda and English.