Postdoctoral Fellow - Mechanization Systems Engineer

Target date	26 May-2012
Country	Philippines
Specialization/Skills	Agricultural Engineering or Mechanization
Basic purpose	To conduct research on the development and adaptation of innovative mechanization solutions for rice-based cropping systems in Southeast Asia. Driven by labor shortages and increasing labor costs, rice-based cropping systems in many regions of Asia will require a structural transformation that involves not only new value chains and agronomic solutions for sustainable production but also new mechanization solutions. Key production steps such as land preparation, crop establishment, crop care, and harvest will need to be done differently than at present. You will work on the mechanization component in an interdisciplinary team researching such future rice systems.
Roles and responsibilities	1. Assist the IRRI Experiment Station in the identification, selection, and evaluation of equipment for crop establishment, pesticide and fertilizer application, land preparation, and harvesting to help facilitate and demonstrate modern, mechanized rice production (four-wheel tractor systems) 2. Working with other research groups, identify and adapt mechanization systems especially for but not limited to direct seeding and mechanical transplanting considering existing farming structures and equipment sizes (two-wheel and four-wheel systems) 3. Contribute to developing options for mechanization of straw collection and harvesting, in particular, in the use of combine harvesters 4. Link with international equipment suppliers to explore potential for joint R&D and machinery evaluation 5. Serve as a resource person in the delivery training on mechanization under IRRIs various training programs 6. Disseminate research findings through attendance in conferences, seminars and workshops and through various publications Qualification requirements: • MS or PhD in agricultural engineering or mechanization and other related disciplines • Minimum of 3 years’ postgraduate experience in farm mechanization or cropping systems research and extension or other equivalent professional experience • Demonstrated experience in modern crop production, mechanization, and postharvest technologies • Ambitions to carry out science of the highest quality and publish in peer-reviewed journals of international standing • Ability to interact as a member of an interdisciplinary research team Preferred competencies include: • Broad and strong interest and knowledge in farm mechanization, rice research, and rice production • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills • Strong organizational skills

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