Rwanda National Performance Trial Specialist (Fixed-Term)

About One Acre Fund Rwanda

One Acre Fund, established in 2006, supports 5.5 million smallholder farmers across nine African countries by providing farm inputs, accessible credit, agronomic training, and various agricultural services. This model helps farmers increase their income and resilience significantly. The Rwanda program, known locally as Tubura since 2007, is the organization's largest, employing over 3,000 staff and assisting more than 2.8 million farmers in 2024. Working closely with the government, the program enhances food security and facilitates market access for crops like coffee, avocado, and chili.

Role Overview

The National Performance Trial Specialist will lead the design and execution of National Performance Trials (NPTs) with scientific rigor, ensuring high-quality trial protocols and statistical analysis, while also building capacity through mentoring and training within the Seed Technology & Business program.

Key Responsibilities

• Design scientifically sound National Performance Trials and oversee their implementation from planting to harvest with research teams.
• Ensure all trial activities align with Standard Operating Procedures, institutional policies, and international agricultural research standards.
• Develop standardized data collection methods and quality control procedures.
• Perform advanced statistical analysis on complex trial data using software tools to derive actionable insights.
• Create clear data visualizations, dashboards, and technical documentation to support decision-making.
• Provide training and mentorship related to experimental design, data management, and analysis for Seed Technology & Business trainees.
• Guide research proposals, enhance technical expertise, and promote best research practices among teams.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and briefs for various stakeholders, translating scientific results into practical advice for seed production and industry partners.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance research methodologies, data systems, and operational workflows.
• Continuously seek improvements in trial design, data integrity, and analytical techniques, adopting digital tools to maximize research effectiveness.
• Contribute to advancing national seed research and variety evaluation through ongoing learning and scientific excellence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or advanced degree in Agriculture, Plant Science, Statistics, Biometry, Agronomy, Seed Science, or closely related fields.
• Minimum of two years’ experience in agricultural research, trial management, or applied statistical analysis.
• Strong background in agricultural research reporting and data analysis is highly valued.
• Proficiency in statistical software such as R, Genstat, SAS, STATA, or equivalents.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills, capable of handling multiple research activities concurrently.
• In-depth understanding of experimental design, qualitative and quantitative research, and quality assurance of data.
• Fluency in both Kinyarwanda and English languages.

Additional Information

Location: Bugesera, Rwanda

Contract Duration: Two-year fixed-term contract, renewable contingent on performance.

Benefits: Includes health insurance, housing, and comprehensive employee benefits.

Eligibility: Open exclusively to Rwandan citizens or permanent residents.

Application Deadline: November 7, 2026, with rolling recruitment until the position is filled.

Organizational Culture: One Acre Fund prioritizes diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism, fostering a workplace where all employees feel valued and connected. Equal employment opportunity is assured for all applicants irrespective of race, gender, nationality, or other characteristics.

Career Development: Regular performance feedback, mentorship, training opportunities, and biannual career reviews support professional growth within a mission-driven organization impacting millions of farmers.