Molecular Breeder Vacancy at IRRI, Philippines

INTERNATIONAL RICE RESEARCH INSTITUTE, PHILIPPINES

POST: Molecular Breeder for Grain Quality (Scientist)(IRS-2011-05-DB)

LOCATION: Los Baños, Philippines

EMPLOYMENT Category:IRS - Internationally Recruited Staff

EDUCATION: PhD

POSITIONS: 1

 Reference number: IRS-2011-05-DB

APPLY BY: 30 September 2011

We are seeking a Molecular Breeder for Grain Quality who will work in close collaboration with breeders, geneticists, physiologists, breeding informatics team, and cereal chemists to develop pre-breeding products with improved grain quality characteristics suitable for different market segments and contribute to population improvement in terms of enhanced yield yield potential and grain quality. 

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Apply molecular approaches in close collaboration with breeders, geneticists, cereal chemists, and breeding Informatics team to develop pre-breeding products with superior grain quality suitable for different market segments

2. Collaborate with grain quality specialists and breeders to develop markers for genes/QTLs governing different quality characteristics and to transfer such traits through marker-assisted selection into high-yielding rice cultivars and pyramiding of QTLs for quality characteristics

3. Contribute to population improvement with emphasis on enhancing yield potential and grain quality

4.   Participate in degree and nondegree training programs

5.   Publish results in scientific journals

    QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENT

    The successful candidate will have a PhD in plant breeding or a related field; with at least 3 years of postdoctoral experience in plant breeding, particularly on rice grain quality; experience in rice breeding, mapping genes/QTLs for quality characteristics  in rice, developing populations and specialized genetic stocks,  including near-isogenic lines; and excellent written and spoken English.

     Screening will start on 30 September 2011 and will continue until a suitable candidate has been found.

Please indicate the position reference number in the e-mail subject line. IRRI regrets that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

IRRI provides a multicultural work environment that reflects the values of gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity, with a competitive compensation and benefit package. Women are encouraged to apply.

Join us to deliver rice science for a better world

Interested candidates  should apply online. Should you encounter problems applying online please email at IRRIRecruitment@irri.org.

FOR DETAILS AND ONLINE APPLICATION, PLEASE REFER http://irri.org/irri/our-people/come-work-with-us

Walk-in for Study Coordinator and Project assistant at NIN, Hyderabad

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF NUTRITION

(Indian Council of Medical Research)

TARNAKA, JAMAI-OSMANIA, HYDERABAD-500 007

NIN/PERS/SCH/2011-12/ Dated: 05-09-2011

WALK-IN-INTERVIEW

PROJECT TITLE: A double blind randomized placebo-controlled trial in school going children to evaluate the impact of a micronutrient fortified nutritional powder on immune response measures

FUNDING AGENCY: GSK India

1.       POST:  Study Coordinator (1 No. UR )

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS: M. Pharm or equivalent or M.Sc. in Clinical trial.

DESIRABLE: Research Experience in clinical trial.

AGE: Below 35 years and relaxation of age is admissible for SC/ST/OBC/PH

CONSOLIDATED PAY: Rs.30,000/- p.m. (fixed) /- without any other allowances.

TENURE: Four months

2.       POST:  Research Assistant (2 Nos. (UR))

ESSENTIALQUALIFICATIONS:1st Class three years Graduate Degree in Biochemistry/Microbiology/ Pharmacy subject with two years research experience or diploma from recognized university/institute.

DESIRABLE: First Class Post graduate in Microbiology / Biochemistry/Pharmacy.

AGE: Below 30 years and relaxation of age is admissible for SC/ST/OBC/PH

CONSOLIDATED PAY: Rs.20,000/- p.m. (fixed) without any other allowances.

TENURE: Four months

DATE OF INTERVIEW: 26-09-2011at 9.30 A.M.

The candidates should bring all original certificates of educational qualification (from SSC onwards), experience and caste along with a photo and set of Photo copies duly attested while attending the Walk-in-Interview.

GENERAL CONDITIONS: The conditions of employment will be the same as are for the project staff on contract basis. The candidates have no right to claim for any regular employment at this Institute. The Appointing Authority has the right to accept / reject any application without assigning any reason and no correspondence in this matter will be entertained. The Candidates who belong to OBC category should submit the certificate of OBC issued by the respective Mandal Revenue Officer/ Tahsildar of the respective States for the purpose of applying to the Central Government Employment.

FOR DETAIILS, PLEASE REFER http://www.ninindia.org/26September2011.pdf

Senior Scientist position at CIFOR

Center for International Forestry Research

POSITION: Senior Scientist, Landscape Ecologist (Ref: 1104)

FORESTS AND ENVIRONMENTS PROGRAMME

The Center for International Forestry Research advances human wellbeing, environmental conservation and equity by conducting research to inform policies and practices that affect forests in developing countries. We are one of 15 centres within the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR). Our headquarters are in Bogor, Indonesia, and we have offices in Asia, Africa and South America.

CIFOR is looking for a visionary Senior Scientist, Landscape Ecologist

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Under the leadership of the Programme Director, the Scientist will develop, facilitate and manage research projects at various sites globally. 

The Scientist will:

Ø  Lead the GIS and Remote Sensing unit, and provide support to other research staff and projects across all CIFOR research programmes and research domains;

Ø  Be responsible for guiding and implementing effective server-based methods for delivering spatial data across the organisation and to the public websites;

Ø  Participate in CIFOR’ s six research domains;

Ø  Help facilitate and identify strategic opportunities in the domains;

Ø  Provide scientific leadership and management, and undertake appropriate research;

Ø  Develop and maintain partnerships;

Ø  Develop and maintain donor relations;

Ø  Support capacity building initiatives and staff development, and encourage continuous improvement and learning.

Ø  Details of duties, assignments and objectives will be further discussed and laid out in an annual performance contract.

REQUIREMENTS

·         Education, experience and technical skills

·         PhD in remote sensing, landscape ecology, modelling with the following specification:

·         demonstrable experience in techniques (best practices) for the spatial modelling of biophysical properties and processes (plant, soil, water, interactions)

·         demonstrated experience applying advanced methods of analysing remotely sensed data to extract precise and accurate information.

·         A strong forestry, ecology, natural resource management or other related fields. 

·         Good publications record especially in scientific and technical journals.

·         Track record in resource mobilisation or fund raising and in proposal development and writing.

·         Fluency in English is required; proficiency in other international languages is preferred.

·         Experience in working with multiple partners and working in developing countries are preferred.

PERSONAL COMPETENCIES

·         Strong project management and organizational skills.

·         Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, experienced in working with multi-cultural and multi-disciplinary research teams.

·         Proven teambuilding capacity.

·         Values the sharing of information and continuous improvement in a cooperative atmosphere of constructive evaluation and learning, and is committed to staff’s development.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

This is an internationally recruited position. CIFOR offers a competitive remuneration commensurate with skills and experience.

The appointment will be for 3 years, including a standard 1-year probationary period, with the possibility of extension contingent upon performance, continued relevance of this position and available resources.

APPLICATION PROCESS

We will acknowledge all applications, but we will contact only short-listed candidates.

Please send your letter of interest and CV, including contact information for three referees to:

Human Resources Department, CIFOR

cifor-hr-jobs@cgiar.org  

Please indicate the position and its reference number in the email subject line.

FOR DETAILS, PLEASE REFER http://www.cifor.org/about-us/careers-with-cifor/careers-detail-view/article/207/senior-scientist-landscape-ecologist-ref-1104.html

Scientist position at CIFOR

CENTRE FOR INTERNATIONAL FORESTRY RESEARCH

POSITION: Scientist, Impact Assessment (Ref: 1103)

The Center for International Forestry Research advances human wellbeing, environmental conservation and equity by conducting research to inform policies and practices that affect forests in developing countries. We are one of 15 centres within the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR). Our headquarters are in Bogor, Indonesia, and we have offices in Asia, Africa and South America.

CIFOR is looking for a Scientist, Impact Assessment.

OVERVIEW

CIFOR is an international research and global knowledge institution with a mission to contribute to the sustained well being of people in developing countries in the tropics. It achieves this through collaborative, strategic and applied research and by promoting the transfer and adoption of appropriate new technologies and social systems for national development.

CIFOR was established under the CGIAR system in response to global concerns about the social, environmental and economic consequences of loss and degradation of forests. It operates through a series of highly decentralized partnerships with key institutions and/or individuals throughout the developing and industrialized worlds. CIFOR is committed to building the capacities of developing country organizations and scientists by encouraging them to produce their own solutions to forest problems. The nature and duration of these partnerships is determined by the specific research problems being addressed. This research agenda is under constant review and is subject to change as CIFOR's partners recognize new opportunities and problems.  Details of CIFOR's program can be found at: www.cifor.org.

Publicly funded organisations like CIFOR are under pressure to demonstrate the efficiency, effectiveness and relevance of their work. This requires having systems and methods in place to track impact. It is more difficult within the natural resources sector to quantify impacts when compared to the agricultural and other commodity sectors. While it is generally accepted that forests can contribute to reducing extreme poverty, we must also demonstrate the extent to which our work actually makes this possible. A key difficulties is that forest benefits tend to take longer to realise than agricultural commodities. Impact is often dependent on events beyond our control. However, there are quantifiable outputs and qualitative indicators of impact that can be used to demonstrate progress towards reducing poverty and other targets. In addition demonstrating impact at the project level tends to be easier than at the centre level. The challenge therefore is to find innovative ways for measuring impact in the natural resources sector and finding effective ways of communicating some impacts.

THE POSITION

The impact assessment scientist will be supervised by the Deputy Director General and will work closely with research directors, regional coordinators. In addition, the impact assessment scientist will have professional contact with CIFOR scientists. 

The specific responsibilities for this position are:

·         Contribute to the strategic planning and prioritisation of research investments

·         Assist scientists with grant proposal development and to plan their research so as to achieve greatest possible impact.

·         Work closely with programme directors and researchers in designing projects to ensure that the right questions are asked at the design stage and to clarify impact pathways, suggest means or approaches to maximise any multiplier impacts, and conduct ex ante impact assessment

·         Design impact tracking and monitoring protocols to ensure that project/research impacts are well documented and eventually adequately assessed and ensure compliance with centre mission and project objectives

·         Contribute to the input of CIFOR to CGIAR and partner organisations impact assessment

·         Support preparation of centre documents such as the medium term plan, annual plans and impact studies.

·         Contribute to the Center's research and training on impact assessment

Key responsibilities of the position are:

·         Measuring impact

·         Development and testing of methods for monitoring and assessing the external uptake, influence and impact of CIFOR research

·         Act as the focal person for the development and promotion of internal processes that support a centre-wide impact assessment framework and a rolling programme of monitoring, evaluation and impact assessment activities to strengthen CIFOR's scientific programmes and improve accountability and impact-related performance

·         Conduct specific impact case studies of major CIFOR projects and ex-post evaluation of CIFOR's overall impact

·         Identify and arrange contracts for consultants to carry out specific impact assessment studies

·         Providing strategic input

·         Providing input to the programmes/domain strategic direction and research investments

·         Assessment of current programmatic capacity in impact assessment, with suggestions for building capacity if required

·         Centre-level reporting

·         Coordinate and contribute to the development of briefing materials on CIFOR's impact including impact statements for the Internet sites, donor briefs and other products

·         Identification, design and coordination of impact assessment studies for CIFOR's contribution to the CGIAR Performance Measurement System

·         Contribute to the internal and external reviews of the Center's work

·         Communication

·         Represent CIFOR at relevant CGIAR and stakeholder  forums  in regards to CIFOR's programme and activities in research evaluation and impact assessment

·         Liaise with partners in other CGIAR centres and national programmes on issues relating to impact assessment and evaluation

·         Research and maintain an up-to-date bibliographic information resource on impact assessment and evaluation, and making this accessible to CIFOR staff

REQUIREMENTS

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum qualification is a PhD in impact assessment or a relevant area (e.g. forestry, micro-economics, rural development, and natural resources management).

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE

·         Between five to eight years work experience in impact assessment, including three years in a research and development institution and three years with a multidisciplinary team

·         Experience with designing impact assessment protocols, monitoring, evaluation and up-to-date knowledge of impact assessment methodologies is required

OTHER COMPETENCIES

·         Excellent analytical and synthesis skills

·         Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact with people in a multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural environment

·         Excellent written and spoken English (required)

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

We offer a competitive remuneration in US dollars commensurate with skills and experience

The appointment will be for a period of 3 years with a possibility of extension contingent upon performance, continued relevance of the position and available resources

The duty station will be at our headquarters in Bogor, Indonesia, with  travel to cooperating countries and research sites

APPLICATION PROCESS

We will acknowledge all applications, but we will contact only short-listed candidates.

Please send your letter of interest and CV, including contact information for three referees to:

Human Resources Department, CIFOR

cifor-hr@cgiar.org

Please indicate the position and its reference number in the email subject line.

FOR DETAILS, PLEASE REFER http://www.cifor.org/about-us/careers-with-cifor/careers-detail-view/article/207/scientist-impact-assessment-ref-1103.html

Vacancy for Post-doctoral fellows at CIFOR

Centre for International Forestry Research

POSITION: Post-doctoral Fellows, Global Comparative Study on REDD+ (C-3) (Ref: 1107)

PROGRAMME: Forests & Environments

RESEARCH DOMAIN: Forest & Climate Change Mitigation

The Center for International Forestry Research advances human wellbeing, environmental conservation and equity by conducting research to inform policies and practices that affect forests in developing countries. We are one of 15 centres within the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR). Our headquarters are in Bogor, Indonesia, and we have offices in Asia, Africa and South America.

CIFOR is looking for two post-doctoral Fellows to support the Tropical Wetland Initiative for Climate Adaptation and Mitigation Project

The joint CIFOR–USFS Tropical Wetland Initiative for Climate Adaptation and Mitigation project aims to support the development of an efficient and accurate REDD+ mechanism for tropical wetlands, including peatlands and mangrove, through better characterisation of C stocks in intact tropical wetlands and in the land cover types that replace them. The project plans to establish permanent plots in tropical wetlands where C stocks can be monitored over time to quantify changes due to global climate change and land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF).

The post-doctoral fellows will develop and implement a research project within an international team that is working on assessing the effects of land-use change on carbon stocks and emissions of trace gases (N2O, CH4 and CO2) from soils at our research sites in Indonesia.  The focus of the work by each successful candidate will be field-based sampling studies in mangrove and peatland ecosystems. 

The incumbent is expected to produce scientific products such as tools and methodologies in addition to being the lead author on his/her own scientific papers. The work will be moderately physically demanding and the successful candidates will be able to work independently in remote areas.  Experience working in diverse and multicultural environments is a plus.  The applicants should demonstrate good organisational skills and experience in leading and motivating field crews.  The incumbent should expect to undertake logistical work associated with setting up a new research site.

REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND TECHNICAL SKILLS

·         PhD in forestry, ecology, natural resource management or other related fields. 

·         Good knowledge of the biogeochemistry of the carbon and nitrogen cycles and biogeochemical research methods

·         Experience in field-based ecological research

·         Fluency in English is required

·         Fluency in Bahasa Indonesia is advantage

·         Experience in working with multiple partners and working in developing countries are preferred.

·         Personal attributes and competencies

·         Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, experience in working with multicultural and multidisciplinary research teams

·         Excellent facilitation skills

·         Have initiative and be capable of working independently as well as in team environments

·         Competency in personal organisation, priority setting and managing multiple tasks

·         Values the sharing of information and continuous improvement in a cooperative atmosphere of constructive evaluation and learning.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

CIFOR offers a competitive remuneration in USD commensurate with skills and experience

The appointment will be for a period of 2 years with a possibility of extension contingent upon performance, continued relevance of the position and available resources

The duty station will be at the CIFOR headquarters in Bogor, Indonesia. There will be extended field campaigns in the designated sites

CIFOR will provide language training to non-Indonesian speakers, although the language of work will be English. 

APPLICATION PROCESS

We will acknowledge all applications, but we will contact only short-listed candidates.

Please send your letter of interest and CV, including contact information for three referees to:

Human Resources Department, CIFOR

cifor-hr@cgiar.org

Please indicate the position and its reference number in the email subject line. 

FOR DETAILS, PLEASE REFER http://www.cifor.org/about-us/careers-with-cifor/careers-detail-view/article/207/post-doctoral-fellows-global-comparative-study-on-redd-c-1-ref-1107.html

Genetic Resources Associate Scientist vacancy at Biodiversity International

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

Notification for Ph.D.Admission(2012) at CDRI, Lucknow

CSIR- CENTRAL DRUG RESEARCH INSTITUTE, LUCKNOW

(Council of Scientific & Industrial Research)

ADVERTISEMENT

(21/2011)

ADMISSION TO Ph.D. PROGRAMMES FOR ACADEMIC SESSION 2012

The CSIR-CDRI invites applications for admission to its Ph.D. programmes from MSc and M. Pharm students in the relevant areas of research in the Institute:

1. CONDITIONS FOR ELIGIBILITY:

a) M.Sc. or equivalent degree in Life sciences/Biotechnology/Chemical/pharmaceutical sciences and qualified in CSIR-UGC-NET, ICMR, DBT examination for Junior Research Fellowship. The fellowship should be valid as on the date of joining for the session commencing January 2012.

b) GPAT qualified second year, 3rd Semester students pursuing M.S. (Pharm) or M. Pharm. in Pharmaceutical/Pharmacology disciplines only may apply for GATE-JRF positions tenable at CDRI from July 2012.

2. HOW TO APPLY:

Candidates need to fill up the on-line application form that is available at the institute’s website (till 5th October 2011). After submitting the online application form, the computer generated ID ticket may be printed and mailed along with photograph, photocopies of certificates of date of birth, educational qualifications and proof for qualifying JRF/GPAT Score to Scientist-in-Charge, Academy Affairs Unit, Central Drug Research Institute (CSIR), Chattar Manzil, Lucknow-226 001 latest by 12th October, 2011. Hard copy submitted without filling online application form shall not be considered or entertained for selection in any circumstances whatsoever.

3. SELECTION PROCESS:

All applications will be screened by a committee. Only those candidates who are found suitable will be called for interview/counselling at CDRI, Lucknow between 15-20 November, 2011. The committee can set their own criteria for shortlisting the candidates. No TA will be paid by CDRI and candidates will have to make their own arrangements for 2-3 days stay at Lucknow. The number of students to be selected will depend upon the positions available with scientists at CDRI. The decision of the committee with regard to selection of candidates shall be final

4. For more details, please refer www.cdriindia.org/phd.htm

For PH.D Admission Bulletin, please refer http://www.cdriindia.org/phd.htm

Research Leader(Nutrition & Biodiversity) vacancy at Biodiversity International

BIODIVERSITY INTERNATIONAL

TITLE: IRS Research Leader, Nutrition & Biodiversity

DESCRIPTION: Bioversity International is one of the world’s leading organisations dedicated to researching agricultural biodiversity and its use to improve people’s lives in the world’s most vulnerable communities. With almost one billion people going hungry, redirecting the global agricultural system to ensure better nutrition is critically important as the supplier of the world’s food. Malnutrition cripples many – particularly in poor areas – due to poor access, and inadequate food and health systems. Agricultural biodiversity is the basis of the food and nutrient value chain and its use is important for food and nutritional security as potentially a safety net against hunger, a rich source of nutrients for improved dietary diversity and quality, and a basis for strengthening local food systems and environmental sustainability. Bioversity’s research on nutrition and biodiversity is designed to explore how biodiversity conservation and use can provide immediate local as well as global benefits to people, especially in developing countries facing a growing double burden of malnutrition. 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 now seeking a highly motivated and dynamic person to lead our research in the area of nutrition and biodiversity. This is an exciting time to join Bioversity International. You will work in a fast moving international setting and on issues that are increasingly in the spotlight and you will have the opportunity to develop to make a difference to our ability to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Purpose of Role Based in our office in Maccarese (20 minutes outside Rome by train), the incumbent will lead research that (i) provides systematic evidence of the links between agricultural biodiversity, dietary diversity and relevant nutrition outcomes; (ii) documents the role of local foods, local food culture and traditional knowledge of plants and foods on diets and nutritional outcomes; (iii) identifies strategic options and pathways that mainstream biodiversity into cross-cutting policy and development agendas in agriculture, health, and environment. He/she will work with partners, stakeholders at the global, national and local levels in implementing Bioversity’s strategy and research agenda in nutrition. Key responsibilities Under the guidance of a research/programme leader the incumbent will have the following specific responsibilities: - Contribute scientifically to Bioversity’s nutrition research agenda on the use of agricultural biodiversity, particularly in the context of developing countries; - Provide scientific leadership on the implementation of Bioversity’s nutrition strategy, within the context of Bioversity’s 10-year institutional strategy, in partnership with relevant research institutes, scientific and development bodies, and integrating all the relevant research results and evidence, so that biodiversity is mainstreamed into cross cutting policy and development agendas; - Produce and contribute to scientific publications and other impact-oriented products from high-quality research on agricultural biodiversity and nutrition; - Coordinate and collaborate with other scientists who participate in the Nutrition Research Programme of the Consortium of the International Agricultural Research Centres (CGIAR), both within Bioversity and other Centres and Organizations; - Identify opportunities and initiate new collaborative research in the area of nutrition and agricultural biodiversity; - Serve as the focal point for nutrition research activities conducted by Bioversity. - Lead and contribute to fundraising proposals to obtain grants for research on agricultural biodiversity and nutrition.

 MINIMUM QUALIFICATION & EXPERIENCE :

 ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS & COMPETENCIES - Ph.D. in community or international nutrition, or global public health, with expertise in the area of food security; - Strong statistical background and experience in rigorous design of nutritional studies and analyses; - Understanding of innovative analytical approaches and platforms for new ways of analyzing data. - Demonstrated 8 to 10 years of international research experience in an area of nutrition at the community and/or program levels, particularly in developing countries. Experience in the field in the developing world is a must; - Demonstrated competency in the management of scientific staff and other resources at a senior level, preferably in an international research or academic environment; - A substantial and sustained record of scientific achievement and innovation including experience with implementation of research projects and a demonstrated publication record in relevant fields; - A commitment to and demonstrated track record of working within multi-disciplinary teams and in multi-cultural environments; - Highly developed communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to motivate, catalyze and promote engagement through negotiation and consensus-building; - Experience with proposal development; - Excellent English language skills, both verbal and written. Desirable competencies and qualifications: - Formal training and/or research experience in the use of biodiversity for food and nutrition, traditional and indigenous food systems, or food-based approaches to health; - Experience in implementing research supporting sustainable use of agricultural biodiversity including ecosystem health, ecology, plant sciences, or related economic aspects; - Participation in global fora and networks on the future of global and local food systems; - Fluency in French, Spanish, or Arabic. 

TERMS & CONDITIONS: This is a senior scientist internationally recruited position. Bioversity International offers an attractive remuneration package including a competitive salary, non-contributory retirement plan, medical insurance, housing allowance 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. 

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 and attaching the required information, no later than 14 October 2011 (submission will be confirmed by a pop-up message: CV successfully submitted). 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. Bioversity is an equal opportunity employer and strives for staff diversity. Women and candidates from developing countries are encouraged to apply. Bioversity International, Bioversity for short, is the operating name of the International Plant Genetic Resources Institute (IPGRI) and the International Network for Improvement of Banana and Plantain (INIBAP)

FOR DETAILS, PLEASE REFER http://www.bioversityinternational.org/about_us/job_opportunities.html