Systems Research Scientist

(Ref: 13-43 SRS/IRS/SSA)

The International Potato Center (CIP) is seeking a dynamic and resourceful scientist to lead systems-oriented research in East Africa and South East Asia, financed by the Humidtropics CGIAR Research Program (CRP).

The Center: CIP is a not-for-profit international agricultural research-for-development organization with a focus on potato, sweetpotato, and Andean roots and tubers. Its vision is of roots and tubers improving the lives of the poor. CIP is dedicated to achieving food security, improved well-being, and gender equity for poor people in root and tuber farming and food systems of the developing world. CIP works with partners to contribute high quality science, technology, and capacity strengthening for sustainable science-based solutions. CIP is headquartered in Lima, Peru, with staff and activities in over 30 locations across Asia, Africa, and Latin America. CIP is a member of the CGIAR Consortium. CGIAR is a global agriculture research partnership for a food secure future. Its science is carried out by the 15 research centers who are members of the CGIAR Consortium in collaboration with hundreds of partner organizations.

The Position: This position will be based in Nairobi, Kenya and will report to the Production Systems and Environment Sub Program Leader. This position will lead the field and analytical systems oriented work conducted under the Humidtropics CRP.

Duties and responsibilities:

• Lead the design of field experiments for generating data for the production systems and systems modeling work in the regions.
• Supervise the implementation of designed experiments both in research stations and farmers fields in targeted production systems. • Supervise the collection of experimental data. • Lead the analysis of experimental data. • Be the focal point for Humidtropics in both East Africa and the Mekong regions. • Represent CIP in all meetings convened by Humidtropics in the regions.
• Responsible for annual planning and budgeting of Humidtropics work in East Africa and the Mekong regions in coordination with local CIP personnel. • Responsible for all technical reports to be submitted to Humidtropics Directorate concerning work in East Africa and the Mekong regions. • Lead the preparation of scientific papers based on Humidtropics works. • Any other related task assigned by the supervisor.

Selection Criteria:

• PhD degree in Agricultural Sciences or other related field • Familiar with production systems oriented research. • Experience in systems analyses and modeling. • Ability to work in a multidisciplinary and multi-cultural environment.
• Excellent interpersonal relationships skills and teamwork orientation. • Good communication skills. • Willingness to travel frequently.

Conditions: The employment contract will be for two years term (with a three month probation period) with possibility of renewal, subject to the renewal of the Humidtropics CRP. The salary will be internationally competitive, paid in US dollars, and commensurate with experience. CIP prides itself on its collegial and supportive working environment, which allows space for personal and professional growth.

How to apply:

Applicants should apply by email, sending a cover letter summarizing their relevance to this position, a full C.V. and the names and contact information of three referees knowledgeable about the candidate’s professional qualifications and work experience to cip-recruitment@cgiar.org . The reference name of the position should be clearly marked on the subject line of the email message. Screening of applications will begin on October 03, 2013 and will continue until the post is filled.