International - Scientist, Regional Project Coordinator

Scientist, Regional Project Coordinator (Asia) for developing “Green Super Rice” (GSR)

Science Recruitment Ireland has been appointed by the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) to assist with a major recruitment drive.  IRRI is currently undergoing a huge growth phase with urgent requirement for postdoctoral fellows, and other more experienced international candidates with expertise in some of the following areas - plant genetics/breeding, plant physiology, plant biochemistry, and developmental biology.  These roles will be based in Philippines or India and will be at least 3-5 years in duration, with a good likelihood that the contracts will be extended further.

Based in the Philippines, the International Rice Research Institute is the oldest and largest international agricultural research institute in Asia. It is an autonomous, nonprofit rice research and education organization with staff based in 14 countries in Asia and Africa. Its mission is to reduce poverty and hunger, improve the health of rice farmers and consumers, and ensure that rice production is environmentally sustainable. We work closely with most rice-producing and -consuming countries and their national agricultural research and extension systems as well as farming communities and a range of international, regional, and local organizations. In partnerships with these national systems, IRRI conducts research and provides training and education for those helping rice farmers by disseminating information and proven, sustainable technologies. IRRI was established in 1960 by the Ford and Rockefeller Foundations in cooperation with the Philippine government. Its headquarters—which feature modern laboratories, training and accommodation facilities, and a 252-hectare experimental farm—lie next to the main campus of the University of the Philippines Los Baños, about 60 kilometers south of the Philippine capital, Manila.

Job Purpose To coordinate research in the South/Southeast Asian region aimed at developing and disseminating “Green Super Rice” (GSR) cultivars that have high and stable yield but require fewer inputs.

Responsibilities: This role involves coordinating a regional research initiative, requiring the expertise of many scientists. Specifically, the Coordinator will be required to;

Build and nurture a strong network of partner organizations across; South Asia (SA) (Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka) South East Asia (SEA) (Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia and Lao PDR), and Within the Institute to implement the project. Organize project planning and review meetings and arrange for inputs by the project advisory panel. Prepare the annual work plan in consultation with project partners in SA and SEA, monitor progress against agreed milestones, and prepare progress reports as required by the donor. Interact regularly with the other regional project coordinators to ensure harmony within the entire project and effective exchange of information and expertise across target regions. Facilitate transfer of funds to partners in national agricultural research and extension systems (NARES) and hire locally recruited staff to assist in project activities. Facilitate a network of players (public, civil society, and small and medium seed enterprises) that ensures sustainable access to seeds and other research products by resource-poor farmers (men and women). Organize and coordinate in-country training of NARES and cross-site visits and assisting in the coordination of training activities at the Institute. Assist the Project Director to supervise and manage the HQ-based research team (GML) in performing molecular breeding activities Collaborate in publishing research outcomes in appropriate journals of international standing and disseminating the results of research and scholarship through other reputable outlets Undertake such specific roles and management functions as may be reasonably required by the Project Director and the Deputy Director General – Research

Knowledge Required for Scientist, Regional Project Coordinator (Asia) for developing “Green Super Rice” Role

Education / Experience 
Minimum Education: PhD or equivalent in agricultural sciences or rural development or a related field

Experience required: - Recognized creative ability to manage research projects to achieve impact - Knowledge and experience in performing and managing a molecular breeding program. - Proven ability to perform in a multi-organizational (public, civil society, and private sector) and multicultural environment - Familiarity with varietal testing and working in the agro-ecosystems of South Asia

Languages: English: Written and Spoken Knowledge of local language an asset

Ideal Experience: Preferred competencies include: - Excellent interpersonal and communication skills - Strong organizational and communication skills

For further information, please contact: Ursula Crossan +353 1 6479206 HYPERLINK "mailto:ursula@sri.ie" ursula@sri.ie Science Recruitment Ireland HYPERLINK "http://www.sri.ie" www.sri.ie