Seed Science & Technology Lead – Rwanda

About the role

One Acre Fund is seeking a Seed Science & Technology Lead to head the Rwanda Seed Center (RICA). The role combines research, postgraduate teaching, and management to ensure high‑quality seed reaches over one million farmers across Rwanda.

Key responsibilities

• Define and execute the scientific and technology roadmap for the Seed Center, aligning with long‑term impact goals.
• Lead a multidisciplinary team, fostering accountability, collaboration and continuous learning.
• Oversee departmental planning, budgeting and OKRs to ensure operational efficiency.
• Design, deliver and continuously improve a flagship postgraduate training program, including curriculum relevance and student outcomes.
• Drive accreditation, regional positioning and growth of the training program through partnerships and funding opportunities.
• Manage the seed laboratory’s technical roadmap, ensuring quality testing, certification and compliance with ISO, ISTA and other standards.

Required profile

• Proven experience in seed science, technology or related agricultural research.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop high‑performing, multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong background in designing and delivering postgraduate‑level training or academic programs.
• Experience managing laboratory services, quality assurance and accreditation processes.

Required skills

• Seed technology and seed laboratory testing.
• ISO standards implementation (e.g., ISO 9001).
• ISTA accreditation processes.
• Research design and execution.
• Postgraduate teaching and curriculum development.