Required Qualifications and Experience

Core Competencies

· Experience in Cowpea research.

· Good understanding of quantitative genetics, inheritance, and trait architecture.

· Knowledge of breeding methods (pedigree, backcrossing, recurrent selection).

· Ability to manage large breeding populations and field operations.

· Knowledge of experimental designs, advanced statistical tools, and database management.

· Support and contribute to the development of cowpea breakthrough products.

· Actively participate in developing new cowpea varieties according to the Target Product Profiles prioritized for West and Central Africa.

· Analyze field data using mixed models and quantitative genetics approaches

· Participate in national and regional advancement meetings

· Join the accelerated cowpea breeding program using modern breeding tools and methods.

· Contribute to trait discovery and deployment in the cowpea breeding program by establishing improved trait phenotyping.

· Coordinate key activities in the West and Central Africa Cowpea Improvement Network, including regional coordinated trials and TRICOT trials.

· Support resource mobilization efforts on cowpea breeding research

· Provide guidance and direction to national staff.

· Publish research results in reputable international journals.

· Co-supervise research activities of postgraduate students.

· Carry out additional duties as may be assigned by the cowpea research team lead.