Showing posts with label Science Recruitment Ireland. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Science Recruitment Ireland. Show all posts

Jan 14, 2009

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

International - Head of Applied Photosynthesis

Senior/Principal Scientist, Head of Applied Photosynthesis and Systems Modeling Team, C4 Rice

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 lead research aimed at introducing the C4 photosynthetic pathway into rice in order to produce a large and sustainable increase in productivity and to coordinate the activities of the C4 Rice Consortium.

Responsibilities: This role involves leading a strategic research initiative which may take a decade to complete, requiring the expertise of many scientists based in advanced institutions around the world. The first three years of the research project will require a focus on proving the concept and assembling the components required to construct C4 rice. Specifically, the Head will be required to;

Lead the research program in applied photosynthesis;

as the focal person on all related scientific matters and reporting; project managing the scientific work programme, including; - serving as the link for communication on scientific, administrative and financial matters; - preparation of periodic progress reports for development partners and follow-up of deliverables; and - supervising scientists, post-doctoral research assistants, research students, technical and other support staff engaged in research. maintaining, in collaboration with colleagues as appropriate, sufficient external funding through research grants or contracts to support a developing research agenda; publishing research outcomes in appropriate journals of international standing and disseminating the results of research and scholarship through other reputable outlets; attending and presenting research findings and papers at academic and professional conferences, and to contribute to the external visibility of the programme and the Institute; and undertaking such specific roles and management functions as may be reasonably required the Deputy Director General – Research Ensure that the expertise in gene discovery is fully harnessed in support of the C4 project by; - fostering a high level of professional outreach and collaboration; - contributing to the research planning, monitoring and evaluation; and - attending meetings and participating (where necessary) in other committees and working groups within the Institute Run an innovative research program which; - has a sound research base of high quality consistent with making full active research contributions; - has an appropriate strategy considerate of risk management, conflict resolution and other key issues for the success of the project; and - reflects well and enhances the Clients reputation. To coordinate the activities of the C4 Rice Consortium. The C4 Project will require 13 research teams and 90 scientists located in six countries. Activities may include; - gathering reports from partners and monitoring output and expenditure against targets and budgets, - ensuring that the consortium agreement is correctly implemented; - organising consortium and committee meetings and taking an active role in these; and - leading project communication, meeting and workshops, as well as any action for training and dissemination purposes.

Knowledge Required for Senior/Principal Scientist, Head of Applied Photosynthesis and Systems Modeling Team, C4 Rice Role

Education / Experience
 Minimum Education: PhD in plant physiology, genetics, molecular biology or a related field
Experience required: At least 5-10 years of post-PhD experience, with a strong background in whole plant physiology and molecular biology and a proven record of innovative contributions.
Languages: English: Written and Spoken Knowledge of local language an asset
Ideal Experience: Preferred competencies include: 
- excellent interpersonal and communication skills - demonstrated ability to work in a multi-disciplinary environment and with colleagues in advanced institutions and NARES - experience working with field crops - an understanding of systems biology

Professional Competencies

Research Planning: Develops scientific framework including identification of the problem, providing rationale, enumeration of objectives, formulation of hypotheses, and identification of appropriate approaches and methodologies (experiments, surveys, etc) (Competency Level 4 Global Leadership) Research Management: Leads research projects and experiments until completion, based on expected outputs. Monitors and reports research developments, including critical findings, problems and solutions to problems. (Competency Level 4 Global Leadership) Planning and Organizing: Establishes work priorities, utilizes budgetary and staff resources to accomplish goals. (Competency Level 4 Mastery) Scientific Communication: Presents research findings in various formats such as refereed journal papers, seminars, conferences, and training materials (Competency Level 4 Global Leadership) RMQA Orientation: Contributes to development of relevant Quality Assessment and Quality Control principles and practices, and monitors compliance with them among subordinates (Competency Level 2 Application)

Core Competencies
Commitment to stakeholders: Understands and assists stakeholders to fulfill their needs, consistent with the organization’s mission and values (Competency Level 3 Mastery) Communication: Communicates in a manner that promotes understanding, openness, and respect for diversity (Competency Level 4 Global Leadership) Development of staff: Recognizes self and others’ development needs, commits to implement individual development plans to empower others, and provides learning and development opportunities (Competency Level 3 Mastery) Creativity: Introduces and applies something new, useful, and valuable for the Institute and its Stakeholders (Competency Level 4 Global Leadership) Results: Produces outputs based on directions and goals, with excellence, integrity, and accountability (Competency Level 4 Global Leadership) Teamwork and Partnership: Works effectively and collaboratively across diversity to achieve shared goals (Competency Level 4 Global Leadership)

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

International - Project Leader

Senior Project Leader, Cereal Systems Initiative for South Asia (CSISA)

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 the Cereal Systems Initiative for South Asia (CSISA), which brings together a range of public- and private-sector organizations to develop and deliver integrated technology solutions for enabling the sustainable intensification of major intensive cereal production systems in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal. Major objectives of CSISA include widespread delivery and adaptation of production and postharvest technologies to increase cereal production, raise incomes, and help prepare farmers for climate change; sustainable crop- and resource-management practices; development and dissemination of high-yielding, stress-tolerant, and disease- and insect-resistant rice, wheat, and maize varieties; improved policies for agricultural growth; and the creation of a new generation of cereal research and extension specialists.

Responsibilities: This role involves leading a strategic research and development initiative which will take a decade or more to complete, requiring the expertise of many scientists and establishing strong public-private sector partnerships for developing, adapting, and delivering new technologies to millions of farmers in South Asia. Four international agricultural research centers will partner with national agricultural research, education and extension systems, non-government organizations and private-sector companies to implement CSISA.

Specifically, the Project Coordinator will be required to:
Act as the focal person for strategic planning, coordinating, and monitoring the activities of CSISA in seven thematic areas across four countries.
Build and facilitate a strong network of public and private sector partner organizations across South Asia to develop, evaluate, and deliver to millions of farmers improved rice, wheat and maize varieties and resource-conserving soil, crop and post-harvest management technologies.
Develop strong linkages between CSISA and other national and international initiatives for improving the productivity of agricultural systems, reducing poverty, enhancing rural development, and improving ecosystem resilience and nutrition in South Asia.
Contribute to developing and evaluating innovative business models for public-private sector partnerships in technology dissemination and professional capacity building.
Develop and implement an efficient communication strategy for CSISA, including multi-media approaches for disseminating critical information and raising awareness.
Organize in-country training, project planning and review meetings.
Interact with the CSISA Advisory Panel and other regional leaders in the public and private sectors.
Monitor project progress against quantitative milestones, prepare periodic progress reports for donors and project partners and represent CSISA in major meetings.
Seek opportunities for new partnerships and complementary funding.
Manage expenditures against targets and budgets.

Knowledge Required for Senior Project Leader, Cereal Systems Initiative for South Asia (CSISA) Role

Education / Experience

Minimum Education: MSc or MBA degree in agricultural or biological sciences, agribusiness, agricultural economics or a related field
Experience required: At least 10 years of experience in agricultural business, rural development, extension or research, including a proven track record in managing interdisciplinary teams or projects, and building and maintaining complex partnerships.
Languages: English: Written and Spoken
Knowledge of local language an asset
Ideal Experience:
Preferred competencies include: experience working with cereal systems in South Asia
good understanding of agronomy and breeding
good understanding of innovative approaches for delivery of agricultural technologies, inputs and services to farmers
good understanding of agricultural markets and policies
excellent interpersonal and communication skills
demonstrated ability to build and lead multi-disciplinary teams agri-business administration and coordination experience
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

International - Scientist, Rice Breeder

Scientist, Rice Breeder - Water scarce systems Role

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 develop high yielding rice varieties adapted to water scarce conditions suitable for direct seeding and alternate wetting and drying (AWD) systems.


Responsibilities:

Develop improved rice germplasm adapted to direct seeding- zero tillage, wet and AWD conditions 35% Identify appropriate plant types and key traits for breeding high yielding varieties suitable for direct seeding 25% Develop high throughput screening protocols for direct seeding under dry, wet and AWD conditions in collaboration with physiologist, agronomists and weed scientists 10%
Identify genes/ QTLs for use in marker assisted selection for key traits such as anaerobic germination, early vigor and weed competiveness 10%
Collaborate with national agricultural research and extension systems (NARES) and ARI in germplasm improvement for water scare systems and multi location evaluation 10%
Develop projects to support the relevant research and networks 5%
Participate in training NARES in breeding varieties for direct seeded conditions 5%


Knowledge Required for Scientist, Rice Breeder - Water scarce systems Role Education / Experience

Minimum Education: Ph.D. in Plant Breeding, Genetics or closely related discipline
Experience required: Minimum 3 years of postdoctoral experience in plant breeding; demonstrated knowledge and experience of breeding for direct seeding; demonstrated knowledge and experience of varietal testing
Languages: English: Written and Spoken
Knowledge of local language an asset


Ideal Experience:
Preferred competencies include;
- Work experience in targeted environments preferably Asia;
- Knowledge and experience of working with early vigor, anaerobic germination, weed competitiveness, QTL identification - Ability to interact as a member of a multicultural research team
- Excellent written and verbal communications skills


For further information, please contact:


Ursula Crossan
+353 1 6479206
 ursula@sri.ie Science Recruitment Ireland HYPERLINK "http://www.sri.ie" www.sri.ie