ICRISAT seeks applications from dynamic and innovative scientists for Scientist/Senior Scientist (Groundnut Breeding), in Internationally Recruited Staff (IRS) Cadre, to be based at Kano, Nigeria.

ICRISAT is a non-profit, apolitical, international organization for science-based agricultural development. Established in 1972, it is a Future Harvest center of the Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research (CGIAR), it is one of 15 centers of the CGIAR, and supported by more than 50 governments, foundations, and development banks. To reduce poverty, enhance crop productivity and food security and to protect the environment, ICRISAT research focuses on farming systems and crop improvement, management and utilization of sorghum, pearl millet, pigeon pea, chickpea, and groundnut in the semi-arid tropics.

The Job: Develop improved breeding lines and varieties of groundnut; plan and execute experiments in crop improvement; analyze, summarize, and interpret the data of the experiments; prepare reports and papers for publication in the reputed journals; prepare project proposals for donor funding; and interact with partners and collaborate with experts from other disciplines and end users (farmers, traders, consumers, etc.) to add value to the crop and enhance livelihood opportunities for the poor in the SAT.

The Person: Scientists with PhD degree from a reputed university in plant breeding and/or genetics, with a minimum five to seven years of post-doctoral experience as plant breeder/geneticist at a research institute/university/private sector company. Knowledge of quantitative genetics theory and its application in practical plant breeding of self-pollinated crops and basic computer skills is essential. Knowledge of marker-aided selection in crop improvement will be an additional desirable requirement. Fluency in spoken and written English is essential. The Scientist should have aptitude to work as a member of interdisciplinary teams in multicultural environment, and should have the ability to interact with partner organizations.

The Reward: This is an internationally recruited staff position with an attractive and competitive salary and benefits package payable in US dollars. The position is initially for three years, and extendable depending on performance of the incumbent and funding availability. An attractive compensation will be offered for the right candidate.

How to apply: Applicants should apply on or before 31 August 2012 by email to: [email protected].

With a letter of motivation, full Curriculum Vitae, and the names and contact information of three references that are knowledgeable of the candidate’s professional qualifications and work experience. The reference name of the position (Scientist/Senior Scientist-Groundnut Breeding-WCA) should be clearly indicated in the subject line of the email. Screening of applications will begin in September 2012 and will continue until the post is filled. All applications will be acknowledged, however only short listed candidates will be contacted.

ICRISAT is an equal opportunity employer and is especially interested in increasing the participation of women on its staff. ICRISAT has a flexible approach to international appointments and welcomes dual-career couples.

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