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Research Assistant Environmental Analysis The Africa Rice Center

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT
Research Assistant Environmental Analysis
Ref. GSS/028/RD/2011/10
The Africa Rice Center (AfricaRice) is looking for a highly qualified Research assistant – Environmental Analysis to join its Sustainable Productivity Enhancement Program. This position is at the GSS (General Support Staff) level and will be based in Cotonou, (Republic of Benin).
About AfricaRice:
The Africa Rice Center (AfricaRice) is an association of 24 African member states and one of the 15 international Centers supported by the Consortium of International Agricultural Research Centers (CGIAR). The Center’s mission is to contribute to poverty alleviation and food security in Africa, through research, development and partnership activities aimed at increasing the productivity and profitability of the rice sector in ways that ensure the sustainability of the farming environment.
Responsibilities:
The Research assistant will work under the supervision of the coordinator of the ‘Realizing the Agricultural Potential of Inland Valley systems’ (RAP) project, and will be working on projects related to inland valleys systems. He / She will:
  • Assist in operational project management tasks including maintaining contacts with collaborating institutions
  • Assist in environmental systems analysis for understanding interaction between various ecosystems and changes induced by land use intensification, demographic pressure and climate change
  • Maintain, develop and archive data bases on inland valley systems
  • Assist in mapping inland valleys in the target countries using field surveys and GIS
  • Assist in preparing presentations and publication of research results
  • Assist in developing training materials
  • Undertake any other duties as requested by the project leader
Requirements:
The successful candidate should have:
  • an MSc in Geography or in Agronomy with a strong background in agriculture and environment;
  • at least two years post MSc working experience in management of projects;
  • experience in data base management and linkage to Geographic Information Systems;
  • experience in data collection in the field using surveys and GPS;
  • experience in development of training;
  • strong analytical skills as well as knowledge of spatial statistics;
  • pro-active and original way of thinking, and
  • communication skills in either English or French, or both are appreciated.
Desirable requirements:
  • Experience in the use of GIS software like ArcGIS;
  • Scientific publication record;
  • General computer skills, including MS Excel, Open Access, ftp-software, etc.
  • Knowledge of rice-based systems and inland valleys in Africa.
Terms and Conditions:
This is a regionally-recruited position and the appointment is for two years with possibility for renewal.
AfricaRice provides an attractive salary and benefits package and a collegial and gender-sensitive working environment.
Application procedure:
Candidates should send an application including a cover letter and a detailed CV with the following information: Name, surname, gender, date of birth, family status, nationality, diplomas obtained, professional experience, language skills (French/English), the names and addresses (including telephone / fax / email) of three referees.
To apply online for this position, please click on the following web link:
Applications will be considered up to November 30, 2011.
AfricaRice believes that staff diversity promotes excellence in its operations, and encourages applications from women and developing country professionals.
AfricaRice thanks all applicants but only the short listed candidates will be contacted.
To learn more about AfricaRice, please visit our website at :