BIODIVERSITY INTERNATIONAL
TITLE: Genetic Resources Associate Scientist
DESCRIPTION: Bioversity International is the world’s largest organization undertaking research on agricultural biodiversity, dedicated to addressing global issues related to food security, poverty, climate change, and environmental degradation. Bioversity undertakes, encourages and supports research and other activities aimed at improving the well-being of people in the developing world, by enhancing the sustainable use and conservation of agricultural biodiversity. We are a non profit organization, active in over 100 countries worldwide, with more than 350 staff working from some 18 country offices. We are one of 15 centres of the Consortium of International Agricultural Research Centres (CGIAR).
JOB DESCRIPTION: Bioversity is seeking a highly motivated scientist to carry out research on the molecular and morphological characterization of Musa (banana and plantain) germplasm, to be in charge of the quality of data in the Musa Germplasm Information System (MGIS) and to assist in facilitating exchange of material and related information within the Musa community. Based at the Bioversity office in Montpellier, France, but with possible extended visits to partners’ research station if needed, the successful candidate will work under the supervision of the Project Coordinator for ‘Conserving and promoting the use of genetic resources of commodity crops’, within the ‘Commodities for Livelihoods’ programme. In consultation with other members of the Bioversity’s genetic resources team and in close collaboration with the MGIS database developer, the Genetic Resources Associate Scientist will: - Conduct research on the morphological and molecular characterization of genetic resources and study the complementarities between in situ and ex situ conservation in a vegetatively propagated crop such as Musa. - Work with partners understanding of the Musa genetic diversity and answering research questions about evolution of the species. - Develop a system to measure and monitor the loss of genetic integrity of conserved germplasm and in particular the behaviour of Musa accessions maintained in vitro at Bioversity’s International Transit Centre (ITC) representing the Global Musa Collection. - In close consultation with experts in Musa taxonomy, improve the data input and validation process to ensure data quality, and work closely with Musa collection curators worldwide to help them gather, enter and regularly update their data in MGIS in an accurate manner. - Work with partners to enhance the value of MGIS to users through the incorporation of standardized characterization and evaluation data. - Contribute to the production of various publications (in print and on-line) related to genetic resources characterization, information and documentation. - Within the framework of MusaNet, a recently established genetic resources network for the implementation of the Global Musa Conservation and Use Strategy, assist the MusaNet coordinator in promoting material and information exchange to assure effective links and collaboration between ITC, Musa ex situ collections and Musa scientists. - Manage grants that are related to genetic resources conservation, characterization and use. - Contribute in other ways to the genetic resources research activities of Bioversity as may be agreed in consultation with the Project Coordinator for ‘Conserving and promoting the use of genetic resources of commodity crops’, within the ‘Commodities for Livelihoods’ programme.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATION & EXPERIENCE :
- A PhD in plant genetics or other equivalent academic qualifications and experience in plant genetics, taxonomy or characterization;
- At least 3 years of relevant professional work experience, preferably in an international working environment.
SKILLS & ABILITIES :
- Knowledge of plant germplasm characterization using morphological and molecular approaches including recently developed genomics tools with a record of publications;
- Good understanding of the issues related to conservation and the use of plant genetic resources in sustainable agricultural development; - Proficient in relevant software packages (Microsoft Word, Excel, data analysis);
- Strong teamwork, interpersonal and communications skills; courtesy, tact and the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with people of different cultural and national backgrounds;
- Good project management skills; - Good analytical skills and ability to write clear and concise scientific documents;
- Excellent command of the English language, both written and spoken. Desirable skills and abilities:
- Previous research experience with vegetatively propagated crops; - Experience in information sciences;
- Knowledge of GIS and modeling expertise; - Working knowledge of French, Spanish or another major international language.
PERSONAL QUALITIES :
- Demonstrates a high degree of originality, creativity and innovation on topics relevant to biodiversity characterization;
- Demonstrates a high degree of initiative and strategic thinking in technical innovation;
- Demonstrates superior adaptability and flexibility.
TERMS & CONDITIONS: This is a locally recruited professional position. Bioversity’s remuneration package includes competitive salary and benefits. As this is a locally recruited position, relocation costs are not covered. The salary is level 6, in a scale of eight levels, with level 8 being the highest. The salary range starts from Euro 37,148. The salary is exempt from French income tax (an internal taxation is applied). The initial contract will be for a period of three years, renewable, subject to a probationary period of twelve months.
APPLICATIONS: Please apply online through Bioversity Job Opportunities web page (http://www.bioversityinternational.org/about_us/job_opportunities.html) by clicking the “Apply” button, completing the online application (submission will be confirmed by a pop-up message: CV successfully submitted) and attaching the required information, no later than 30 September 2011. Please note that in the application you are required to provide the contact details (address, telephone number and e-mail address) of at least three referees, which Bioversity will contact for short listed applicants.
FOR DETAILS, PLEASE REFER http://www.bioversityinternational.org/about_us/employment_opportunities/vacancies.html
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