Ref No: DDG-R4D/SB/01/15

Background: The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) invites applications for the internationally recruited position of Soybean Breeder.

IITA is an international non-profit agricultural research-for-development (R4D) organization established in 1967, governed by a Board of Trustees, and a member of the CGIAR Consortium. Our R4D approach is anchored on the development needs of the tropics. We work with partners to enhance crop quality and productivity, reduce producer and consumer risks, and generate wealth from agriculture. We have more than 100 internationally recruited scientists from about 35 countries and 900 nationally recruited staff based in various stations across Africa. Please visit http://www.iita.org/ for more information on IITA.

Position/Responsibilities:

• Develop improved soybean cultivars and populations for a range of uses through the use of adapted and introduced germplasm, and in collaboration with national and international partners.  
• Conduct high quality research on the genetics of key traits including resistance/tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses.
• Develop creative approaches for the exploitation of genomics and genomic data in germplasm enhancement and improvement of soybean.
• Develop strong institutional arrangements and partnerships in support of effective targeting, capacity development, and active soybean technology testing and delivery..
• Contribute to the identification of new opportunities for soybean production through liaison with national governments, the private sector and other potential industrial users.
• Engage in resource mobilization and maintain effective relationships with key development investors.
• Mentor and supervise research associates, field technicians, and postgraduate students (through degree and non-degree related training).

Educational Qualifications

The candidate should have a PhD degree in plant genetics, genomics, plant breeding, or related field. 

Core Competencies:

• Substantial post-PhD experience in conducting a field-breeding program (preferably on soybean), and in linking with seed producers and companies in their production and marketing of seeds of improved varieties
• Knowledge on applications of molecular tools in plant breeding.
• Strong scientific publication record.
• Familiarity with on-farm research methods.
• Ability to work as a member of a multi-disciplinary team in a cross-cultural environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of advanced statistical tools and database management.
• Excellent spoken and written English; ability to communicate in French is desirable.

Duty station: IITA-Lusaka, Zambia.

General information: The contract will be for an initial period of three years with possibility of renewal based on performance and availability of funding. IITA offers internationally competitive remuneration package paid in U.S. Dollars.

Applications: Applications must include covering letter which should address how the candidate’s background/experience relates to the specific duties of the position applied for, curriculum vitae, names and addresses of three professional referees (which must include either the Head of the applicant’s current or previous organization or applicant’s direct Supervisor/Superior at his/her present or former place of work). The application should be addressed to the Head, Human Resources Service. Please complete our online application form using this link: http://www.iita.org/careers      

Closing Date: 5th March 2015

IITA is an equal opportunity employer and particularly welcomes applications from women candidates.

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.