service-orientated professional for the position of Senior Scientific
Program Officer to support research, project management and program
development activities in the Global Conservation Agriculture Program
(GCAP).
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 selected candidate will work under the direct
supervision of the GCAP Program Director, and in close interface
with scientists, project leaders, Program Administrative Teams
worldwide, and other Programs/Units of CIMMYT, for enhancing the
timely delivery and effective management of the research program.
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 and responsibilities of this position will include:
Support the Program Director and scientists in developing high quality
grant proposals in strategic regions and priority areas worldwide.
Assist the Program Director in planning and program management through
collation and analysis of project-related information, monitoring of
the scientific work plans, delivery of key milestones and outputs, and
other reporting obligations.
Assist the Program Director in recruitment and placement of new staff
to implement activities across projects.
Support scientists and project leaders in timely reporting and
communication and outreach efforts for enhancing the impact of
research by producing publications, bulletins and other materials.
Support internal and external publication of Program research outputs
through internal review and scientific editing of materials.
Mentor and guide young scientists in writing for journals and
different scientific, development and policy audiences.
Assist scientists, Program staff and the Director in developing and
implementing more efficient operating procedure.
Support project leaders in developing and implementing timely
sub-grant agreements and performance contracts with partners.
Analyze Program resources and their use, and help develop strategic
plans for human resource and capital development.
Contribute to enhancing partnerships, data management and documenting
the impacts of CIMMYT research.
Contribute to scientific research and project implementation in
selected thematic areas of conservation agriculture research.
Undertake any other relevant scientific and science administration
tasks as assigned by the Program Director.
Perform other duties as directed by supervisor.
We are seeking candidates with the following academic qualifications,
skills and attitudes:
Essential:
MSc in agronomy, project planning, business administration or any
other related fields.
A minimum of five years of experience in the management/administration
or coordination of research or academic programs.
Knowledge of donor requirements and experience in developing and
writing successful project proposals.
Deep understanding of agricultural research, development and
environmental challenges in the developing regions.
Practical skills and familiarity with standard project management
software and results-oriented program management.
Excellent scientific writing ability and communication skills.
Excellent spoken and written English; Knowledge of other foreign
languages is an advantage.
An effective and energetic team player, with the ability to work in a
multidisciplinary and multi-cultural environment.
Strong self-motivation and innovative skills, with capacity to work
independently and meeting deadlines.
Desirable:
PhD degree in agronomy, business administration or related field.
Ability and willingness to allocate time flexibly into program
management and supporting research in selected priority areas.
Interest and motivation to leverage knowledge for building a highly
effective research program for delivering impact.
Familiarity with web publishing and interactive media.
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 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 Friday, 16
November, 2012 to Human Resources, CIMMYT
(Email: nrsrecruitment@cgiar.org / Please insert Position Reference
number: 12251 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
