We are seeking an outstanding, highly-motivated candidate for the position of Cropping Systems Agronomist in the Global Conservation Agriculture Program. The position will work in the new COMESA (Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa) project, which will focus on climate smart agriculture in Zimbabwe and Malawi.
The International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center, known by its Spanish acronym, CIMMYT®, is a not-for-profit research and training organization with partners in over 100 countries. Please refer to our website for more information: www.cimmyt.org
The selected candidate will be based at the CIMMYT Southern Africa Regional Office in Harare, Zimbabwe.
Specific duties of this position include:
- Work closely with CIMMYT staff and assume the day-to-day management of agronomic research programs focused on sustainable intensification in southern Africa.
- Help develop innovation systems focused on the adaption CA practices to the circumstances of small-scale, resource-constrained farmers in southern Africa.
- Oversee and monitor the management of on-farm demonstrations established with partners under various projects and provide advanced analyses to study the effects of sustainable intensification on system productivity soil quality, water and nutrient use efficiency and pest and disease dynamics
- Assist in surveys, farmer-to-farmer exchange and study tours to facilitate widespread adoption of CA technologies.
- Communicate research results to various audiences and in various forms.
- Provide practical training to local researchers and extension agents in the principles and practice of CA as well as CA equipment and machinery.
- Assist in field and farm modeling of long-term research results in southern Africa and through collaborative efforts with other farm simulation groups.
- Help and contribute to development new initiatives on sustainable intensification in the region and elsewhere.
We are seeking candidates with the following academic qualifications, skills and attitudes:
- PhD in Agronomy, Soil Science or a closely related field.
- Considerable practical agricultural field experience, including experience with on-farm research, animal traction and manual farm equipment.
- Experience with adapting the principles of CA to local biophysical and socioeconomic conditions.
- Experience with state-of-the-art soil and water monitoring equipment.
- Commitment to advance farm productivity and reduce poverty in the developing world.
- Ability to communicate research results effectively to a wide range of audiences.
- Computer literacy, with proficiency in the common software packages.
- Flexibility to spend extended periods away from post location.
- Proficient communication skills in written and spoken English.
- Demonstrated ability to work collegially and collaboratively in diverse, multicultural partnerships.
We will offer an initial contract for two years, which may be renewable subject to continued need and funding for the position and performance of the staff member. Our internationally competitive salary and benefits include housing allowance, car, comprehensive health and life insurance, assistance for children’s education, paid vacation, annual airfare, contribution to a retirement plan, and generous assistance with relocation shipment.
CIMMYT is an equal opportunity employer. It fosters a multicultural work environment that values gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity. Women are encouraged to apply.
How to apply:
To apply for this position, please email cover letter and CV no later than Friday, 8 November, 2013 to HR, CIMMYT (Email: irsrecruitment@cgiar.org / Please indicate Position Reference number: 12326 in the header of your email).
For further information on the selection process, please contact Guillermo Flores, Staffing Specialist, atg.flores@cgiar.org.
Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
