We are seeking an innovative, results-oriented scientist with excellent skills and knowledge in developing disease screening protocols and implementing high throughput, precision phenotyping for key diseases of maize. The selected candidate will play a key role as a member of the CIMMYT Global Maize Program (CIMMYT-GMP) team, and will contribute to and draw on the experience of a multidisciplinary research team focusing on biotic stress resistance. As a Mexico-based member of CIMMYT-GMP, the selected scientist will work closely with CIMMYT’s research teams, as well as public and private partners, advanced research institutes, and national research programs to expand the network of partnerships.
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 position will report to the Senior Maize Breeder for Latin America and will be based in Mexico at CIMMYT’s headquarters (located 45 km northeast of Mexico City, Mexico). Frequent travel to other key field phenotyping sites in Latin America is required.
Specific duties of this position include:
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Developing innovative, high throughput and precision phenotyping protocols for important maize diseases.
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Designing and implementing on-station and on-farm maize pathology trials, as well as collection and analysis of multi-location phenotypic data for prioritized disease traits for supporting the breeding pipeline.
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Identifying and validating donors with host-plant resistance against major diseases.
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Supporting the maize breeding pipeline by multi-location disease phenotyping of large sets of germplasm.
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Assisting the molecular breeding team in efficient implementation of research activities related to development and deployment of breeder-ready markers for important diseases.
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Training and technical backstopping of national partners in novel tools/techniques of disease phenotyping.
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Developing grant proposals to secure funding for conducting specific research programs.
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Contribute to collaborative efforts of Global Maize Program, research and capacity building activities in the framework of CIMMYT’s overall project agenda.
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Contribute to the visibility of CIMMYT’s research, partnerships and impacts.
We are seeking candidates with the following academic qualifications, skills and attitudes:
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PhD in plant pathology or an associated discipline.
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At least 3 years post-doctoral experience in plant pathology in a reputed institution.
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Specialization in maize pathology is desirable.
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Applied knowledge of experimental design, field trial management, and field breeding operations, preferably in maize.
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Demonstrated ability to design, implement, and analyze disease phenotyping trials at the field level.
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Demonstrated ability to publish in refereed, high-impact scientific journals.
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Proficiency in written and spoken English.
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Proven ability to organize and coordinate complex tasks and strong self-motivation and innovation skills.
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Interest in international research and development applied to the problems of developing countries.
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Demonstrated ability to work collegially and collaboratively in diverse, multicultural environment.
The position is for an initial fixed-term contract of 3 years, after which further employment is subject to performance and the continued availability of funds. CIMMYT’s 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.
To apply for this position, please email cover letter and CV no later than Wednesday, 31 December 2014 to HR, CIMMYT (Email: irsrecruitment@cgiar.org / Please indicate Position Reference number: 12337 in the header of your email). In your application, please specify where you saw this position advertised.
For further information about the position, please contact Dr. B.M. Prasanna, at b.m.prasanna@cgiar.org For further information on the selection process, please contact Esther Mendoza, Staffing Specialist, at e.m.ramos@cgiar.org
Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.