ICRISAT Scientist/Senior Scientist-Genetic Resources

ICRISAT seeks applications from dynamic and innovative scientists for the position of Scientist/Senior Scientist-Genetic Resources, as part of a continuing expansion in the institute’s commitment to using genetic resources and modern approaches to crop improvement. This position is based at ICRISAT Headquarters, near Greater Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, India.

ICRISAT is a non-profit, apolitical, international organization for science-based agricultural development. Established in 1972, it is a Future Harvest center of the Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research (CGIAR), it is one of 15 centers of the CGIAR, and supported by more than 50 governments, foundations, and development banks. To reduce poverty, enhance crop productivity and food security and to protect the environment, ICRISAT research focuses on farming systems and crop improvement, management and utilization of sorghum, pearl millet, pigeonpea, chickpea, and groundnut in the semi-arid tropics.

The Job: To work in collection, conservation and characterization of genetic resources, assess diversity of germplasm collections using morpho-agronomic and molecular markers data, developing representative subsets to identify trait-specific germplasm, and use of wild genepools through pre-breeding. Work with partners to enhance use of genetic resources, and develop project proposals for funding, and reports to donors.

The Person: The candidates should be PhD in Plant Breeding and/or Genetics with a minimum of five to seven years of post-doctoral experience. Knowledge and experience of genetic resources collection, conservation, characterization, utilization and experience of analysis of large sized datasets and developing germplasm subsets, and gap analysis for collecting is essential. Preference will be given to candidates with a strong publication record. Ability to work in a multidisciplinary, multi-cultural environment of the institute is important.

The Reward: This is an internationally recruited staff position with an attractive and competitive salary and benefits package payable in US dollars. The position is initially for three years, and extendable depending on performance of the incumbent and funding availability. An attractive compensation will be offered for the right candidate.

How to apply: Applicants should apply on or before 31 August 2012 by email to: ICRISATjobs@cgiar.org, with a letter of motivation, full Curriculum Vitae, and the names and contact information of three references that are knowledgeable of the candidate’s professional qualifications and work experience. The reference name of the position (Scientist/Senior Scientist-Genetic Resources) should be clearly indicated in the subject line of the email. Screening of applications will begin in September 2012 and will continue until the post is filled. All applications will be acknowledged, however only short listed candidates will be contacted.

ICRISAT is an equal opportunity employer and is especially interested in increasing the participation of women on its staff. ICRISAT has a flexible approach to international appointments and welcomes dual-career couples.