The World Vegetable Center (WorldVeg) has announced a Field Assistant – Trials opportunity based in Arusha, Tanzania. This position offers a chance for agriculture professionals to contribute to international research focused on improving vegetable production, nutrition, and sustainable farming practices.
About the World Vegetable Center
The World Vegetable Center is a non-profit and autonomous international agricultural research organization headquartered in Taiwan, with regional offices across the world. The center conducts research and development aimed at improving vegetable breeding, promoting safe production systems, reducing post-harvest losses, and enhancing the nutritional value of vegetables.
Through its programs, WorldVeg works to increase awareness about the role of vegetables in improving human health and addressing global poverty challenges. Its initiatives support farmers, researchers, and communities to adopt innovative agricultural practices that contribute to sustainable food systems.
Position Overview
WorldVeg is seeking a Field Assistant – Trials to support activities related to vegetable germplasm regeneration, characterization, and seed post-harvest management. The successful candidate will help ensure the production and maintenance of high-quality and genetically authentic seeds.
The selected candidate will be stationed at the Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office in Arusha, Tanzania, working closely with research teams and field staff.
Key Responsibilities
The Field Assistant will support research and field operations through several important tasks, including:
- Implementing vegetable germplasm regeneration and characterization activities according to approved genebank Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and technical protocols.
- Ensuring accurate labeling, documentation, and tracking of genebank accessions during regeneration, harvesting, and post-harvest handling.
- Collecting and managing morphological and agronomic data, including photographic documentation following required data standards.
- Preparing plant samples such as leaves, seeds, and tissues for laboratory analysis while ensuring proper labeling and timely submission.
- Compiling and submitting trial data sets and summary reports at the end of each production cycle.
- Supervising field management activities including irrigation, fertilization, weeding, staking, and pest and disease monitoring.
- Coordinating and supervising casual laborers during land preparation, planting, crop maintenance, harvesting, and post-harvest work.
- Ensuring proper harvesting, drying, cleaning, and storage of regenerated seeds to maintain quality and genetic integrity.
- Supporting additional genebank activities such as seed processing, germination testing, seed health integrity testing, and inventory management.
- Ensuring compliance with institutional safety, biosafety, and phytosanitary regulations during field and post-harvest operations.
- Performing other duties related to genebank operations as assigned by the supervisor.
Required Qualifications and Competencies
Applicants should meet the following requirements:
- Minimum Bachelor’s degree (BSc) in Agriculture, preferably majoring in Horticulture or a related field.
- At least one year of experience in vegetable field trials or related agricultural research activities.
- Experience with experimental field layout and design is an added advantage.
- Good knowledge of plant physiology, diseases, and insect pests affecting vegetable crops.
- Strong written communication skills and ability to communicate effectively in English.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Word and Excel.
Note: This position is classified as a Nationally Recruited Staff (NRS) role.
Core Values
The selected candidate is expected to embody the core values of the World Vegetable Center:
- Dedication to Innovation and Knowledge Sharing – Supporting world-class scientific research and transparent dissemination of knowledge.
- Commitment to Impact – Striving to create measurable and lasting impact aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.
- Commitment to Partnerships – Promoting collaboration to advance agricultural research and development.
- Respect for People – Valuing diversity across gender, culture, beliefs, and backgrounds.
- Respect for the Environment – Promoting environmentally friendly technologies and practices.
Application Process
Interested applicants should submit the following documents:
- A cover letter explaining their suitability and interest in the position.
- An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) including telephone and email contacts.
- A recent passport-size photograph.
- Names and contact details of three referees.
- Date of availability.
Applications should be sent to info-esa@worldveg.org or submitted through the job bank site before 16 March 2026. Applicants must clearly indicate the position title in the email subject line. The initial appointment is for six months, with the possibility of extension depending on organizational needs, funding availability, and the employee’s performance.
