Biotic Stress Geneticist , International Potato Center

Ref.: 12-24 /BSG/IRS/HQ

The position: The Biotic Stress Geneticist will be based in Lima, Peru. He/she will work primarily in the Genetics and Crop Improvement Program. The researcher will contribute to elucidating the genetic basis of resistance to potato late blight in genetic resources and improved populations, identifying and exploiting leads from relevant host and pathogen genome sequences and functional understanding including effector biology.

The scientist will conduct research on plant/pathogen recognition, defense and pathogenicity to devise strategies for the identification of genes and traits that contribute to durable resistance through classical or molecular breeding. The position will contribute to and draw on the experience of a multi-disciplinary research team focusing on late blight management and resistance breeding and help develop gene-based markers and strategies to breed for durable resistance to potato late blight.

Duties and Accountabilities:

• Elucidate the organization of disease resistance genes in genetic stocks and improved potato populations.
• Supervise research on discovery and characterization of resistance genes and their single and combined effects on resistance phenotype
• Work in team with the pathologists to utilize the knowledge of the pathogen populations in deployment of resistance genes
• Define and develop molecular assays to complement phenotypic assessments
• Help develop breeder-ready molecular markers for biotic stress resistance
• Attract research funds through grant writing

Selection Criteria:

• PhD degree in plant breeding or plant pathology
• Working knowledge of molecular genetics
• Strong understanding of current state of knowledge of plant -pathogen interactions
• Capable of developing and applying innovative concepts in molecular breeding;
  Demonstrated ability to publish in refereed scientific journals.
• Proficiency in written and spoken English; Ability in Spanish preferred.
• Proven ability to organize and coordinate complex tasks and manage teams.
• Interest in international research applied to the problems of developing countries.
• Demonstrated ability to work collegially and collaboratively in diverse, multicultural environments.

Conditions: The employment contract will be for an initial three-year term with the possibility of renewal based on performance and available funds. The Salary will be internationally competitive, paid in US dollars, and commensurate with experience. CIP provides additional benefits including employer-paid medical, life and disability insurance and retirement benefits. Allowances toward relocation, housing, home leave travel, dependents’ education and annual leave are also provided. CIP prides itself on its collegial and supportive working environment, which allows space for personal and professional growth.

Applications: Applicants should apply by email, sending a letter of interest, 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 start on May 31 and continue until the post is filled. All applicants will be acknowledged, however, only short listed candidates will be contacted.