SciDev.Net

Responsibilities

• To feed a rapidly increasing population it is crucial to tap into the full range of traits in the diversity of crop varieties and their wild relatives that have been selected over thousands of years for a multiplicity of conditions and qualities.
• Under the supervision of the Director, Understanding and Managing Biodiversity Programme, and based at the Regional Office for Sub-Saharan Africa, Nairobi, Kenya, the incumbent will:
• Provide scientific leadership, coordination and facilitation of research to overcome constraints to the enhanced use of plant genetic resources. More specifically, having in-depth expertise in at least one of the areas listed below, the Senior Scientist will build the necessary links to develop a cohesive programme of work encompassing all four areas:
• Identifying and understanding the extent and distribution of genetic diversity in agricultural biodiversity, particularly of crop plant genetic resources and wild populations of useful plants;
• Developing ways of sampling and monitoring genetic diversity applicable to evaluating the status and trends of important genepools;
• The application of molecular genetics and genomics tools to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of both conservation and use of genetic resources;
•  Promoting the use and deployment of genetic diversity through activities such as pre-breeding and base broadening of cultivars under production and promoting links to more general plant breeding, including breeding by farmers.
• He/she will be expected to further develop such a research agenda, to be implemented in collaboration with national partners and other institutions;
• The Senior Scientist will play a key role in the development of fundraising proposals to support collaborative research in this area, as well in development the capacity of partners;
• As a member of the Sub-Saharian Reginal Office, he/she is expected to be an excellent team player and to contribute to the delivery of outputs at regional level.

Experience Required

Essential qualifications and competencies:

• A PhD in genetics or conservation genetics with an emphasis on plant populations, or in plant breeding.
• At least ten years of experience working with research partners on topics related to agrobiodiversity and plant genetic resources; preferably research experience on the subject of biodiversity and the use of genetic resources; applied field experience in developing countries.
• Broad knowledge about modern genetics/genomics technologies and their potentials to contribute to research themes related to the use of plant genetic resources.
• Knowledge about population genetic structure and dynamics and their relevance to use (breeding) and conservation/monitoring.
• Knowledge of research methods, including methods for genetic diversity assessment, germplasm enhancement, crop improvement and population genetics and their application in use- related programmes.
• Demonstrated competency in communication and interpersonal skills complemented by a commitment to and demonstrated track record of working within multi-disciplinary teams and in multi-cultural environments.
• Excellent English language skills, both verbal and written.
• Demonstrated ability to write proposals and generate funds for research.
• A substantial and sustained record of achievement and innovation through project development, implementation and delivery of results and demonstrated publication record.

Desirable qualifications and competencies

• Knowledge of CGIAR system will be an advantage.
• Working knowledge of Spanish, French, Arabic or Russian.
• Experience and networks in Africa will be an advantage.

Salary Benefits

Terms and conditions: This is a Senior Scientist, internationally recruited, position for which Bioversity International offers an attractive remuneration package including a competitive salary, non-contributory retirement plan, medical insurance and leave provisions. All benefits are denominated and paid in US Dollars. The initial contract will be for a period of three years subject to a probationary period of one year.

Application Procedure

Please apply online through the following link: Bioversity Employment Opportunities Webpage by clicking the “Apply” button. Alternatively, via e-mail to: bioversityvacancy@cgiar.org including a letter of application, curriculum vitae in English (that includes date of birth, gender and nationality) and the names and full contact details of at least three referees (telephone, fax and e-mail address); or via mail to: Human Resources Office, Bioversity International, Via de Tre Denari, 472/a, 00057 Maccarese, Rome, Italy; or via Fax to (39) 06 6118 341 no later than 29 November 2009. Please quote the source of advertisement.

Contact Details

Human Resources Office, Bioversity International, Via de Tre Denari, 472/a, 00057 Maccarese, Rome, Italy; Fax (39) 06 6118 341