Research Assistant - Farm Operations
Assist in farm operations and data management at ILRI in Ibadan.
Overview
Assist in farm operations and data management at ILRI in Ibadan.
You have:
- HND/Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture, Animal Science or related field.
- Minimum of three (3) years’ experience performing similar role in a well-structured environment.
- Strong organizational, communication and teamwork skills.
- Experience in farm operations and basic data handling.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and data management tools.
- Familiar with digital data collection tools (e.g., Excel, Kobo Toolbox).
- Ability to work independently and follow instructions.
The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture on behalf of ILRI seeks suitable Nigeria Nationals for the positions below at the Institute’s headquarter in Ibadan.
Position: Research Assistant – Farm Operations
Duration: 6 months’ renewable Location: Ibadan
Closing Date: 23 October 2025
DUTIES:
Farm Operations Support
- Assist in daily farm activities including feeding, cleaning, and animal handling.
- Support crop and forage production activities including planting, harvesting, and maintenance.
- Assist in implementing experimental protocols under supervision.
- Oversees ILRI’s collaborator’s fieldwork for research and development.
- Provide technical supports to out-station operations.
Data Management Responsibilities
- Collect and record field and farm data using standardized tools and templates.
- Ensure accuracy and completeness of data through regular validation and cleaning.
- Enter data into ILRI-approved databases and spreadsheets.
- Support data analysis and visualization for internal reports and presentations.
- Maintain confidentiality and data security in line with ILRI policies.
- Collaborate with research and IT teams to improve data collection workflows.
- Contribute to MEL (Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning) activities by providing timely and quality data.
Perform any other duty as may be assigned by the Supervisor.
Requirements
QUALIFICATION:
HND/Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture, Animal Science or related field with a minimum of three (3) years’ experience performing similar role in a well-structured environment.
COMPETENCIES:
The ideal candidate must:
- Have strong organizational, communication and teamwork skills.
- Be experienced in farm operations and basic data handling.
- Be proficient in Microsoft Office and data management tools.
- Be familiar with digital data collection tools (e.g., Excel, Kobo Toolbox).
- Have the ability to work independently and follow instructions.
Benefits
REMUNERATION:
We offer highly competitive salary with equally attractive benefits and excellent working conditions in a pleasant campus environment.
Potential interview questions
| Describe a time you assisted in farm operations. What was your role? | This question assesses your practical experience in farm activities and your ability to work in this environment. | Provide specific examples, detailing what tasks you performed and how you contributed to the team. |
| How do you ensure data accuracy in your work? | The interviewer wants to gauge your attention to detail and understanding of data handling procedures. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Tell us about your experience with digital data collection tools. | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What strategies do you employ to manage your time effectively on the farm? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Can you provide an example of a successful teamwork experience? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What challenges have you faced in farm operations, and how did you overcome them? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| How do you stay motivated when working independently? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What do you consider most important when ensuring data security? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |