Cropping Systems Agronomist - Post-Doctoral/Associate Scientist

We are seeking a dynamic, innovative, self-motivated, and service-orientated professional for the position of Cropping Systems Agronomist at the Post-Doctoral or Associate Scientist level (depending on the experience and qualifications of the successful candidate) to work within the Mexico-based Conservation Agriculture Program that forms part of the Global Conservation Agriculture Program. The position is part of an ambitious strategic research program that generates knowledge to support CIMMYT's Cropping Systems Management and Conservation Agriculture activities worldwide.

The position will be based at CIMMYT's Main Campus (located 45 km northeast of Mexico City, Mexico) but will interact with all CIMMYT´s experimental stations and regional office (country and world-wide) on a regular basis.

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. 

Specific duties of this position include:

• Develop strategic research on genotype by system (tillage, residue management, irrigation practices) interactions, looking at the relation between practices based on the principles of conservation agriculture (CA) and wheat genotype.
• Cultivate partnerships with advanced research institutes to strengthen the strategic research capacity.
• Interact closely and develop strategic research with the CIMMYT breeders, physiologists and pathologists.
• Interact closely with private sector partners.
• Collaborate with CIMMYT staff, national and international partners to build integrated approaches to increase the productivity of farming systems while improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers.
• Communicate research results to diverse communities, including scientists, change agents, policy makers and farmers.
• Provide practical training to researchers from the National Agricultural Research Systems in developing countries world-wide.

We are seeking candidates with the following academic qualifications, skills and attitudes:

• Ph.D. in Agronomy, Breeding, Physiology or a closely related field.
• Significant and demonstrated experience in cropping systems research.  
• Record of high quality scientific publications.
• Computer literacy, with proficiency in the common software packages.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; Knowledge of Spanish will be an advantage.
• Commitment to advances in farm productivity and poverty reduction in the developing world.
• Willingness to spend considerable time away from home, and high standards of professional ethics.
• Ability to integrate and syntesize information from different sources.
• Strong organizational skills, analytical and creative thinking, and an ability to contribute proactively to a results-oriented, multi-cultural and multi-disciplinary team.

The position is for an initial fixed-term contract of 2 years, after which further employment is subject to performance and the continued availability of funds. CIMMYT offers an attractive remuneration package paid in US dollars, with a range of benefits including housing allowance, life and health insurance, education allowance (to Grade 12), home leave, retirement fund, and relocation shipping assistance.

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.

Apply online or email cover letter and CV no later than Monday, 12 November, 2012 to Human Resources, CIMMYT
(Email: nrsrecruitment@cgiar.org  / Please insert Position Reference number: 12249 in the subject of your email)
Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
For further information please contact Guillermo Flores, g.flores@cgiar.org