Scientist/Senior Scientist-Crop Physiology
ICRISAT seeks applications from Indian nationals and nationals from Asian countries for a Scientist/Senior Scientist-Crop Physiologist, in its Scientific and Managerial Group (SMG), to be based at Patancheru, Andhra Pradesh, India.
ICRISAT is a non-profit, non-political organization that conducts agricultural research for development in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa with a wide array of partners throughout the world. Covering 6.5 million square kilometers of land in 55 countries, the semi-arid tropics is home to over 2 billion people, with 650 million of these the poorest of the poor. ICRISAT and its partners help empower those living in the semi-arid tropics, especially smallholder farmers, to overcome poverty, hunger, malnutrition and a degraded environment through more efficient and profitable agriculture. ICRISAT is headquartered in Greater Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, India and belongs to the Consortium of Centers supported by the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR).
Crop Physiology Research at ICRISAT:
The Crop Physiology Laboratory undertakes research on abiotic stresses, and in particular drought and salinity on ICRISAT’s mandated crops (sorghum, pearl millet, groundnut, chickpea, pigeonpea), but also involves in a number of cross-species initiatives to better understand drought adaptation across cereals and legumes. The activity of the lab involves undertaking research to better understand the physiological mechanisms of tolerance to drought, and develop or improve screening method towards the phenotyping of large number of entries for mapping/breeding purposes. The Crop Physiology Lab is currently looking to expand in the area of image analysis, both infrared and visible, to assist in the efforts to develop high throughput phenotyping methods.
The Job:
- Conduct physiological studies on the tolerance to drought stress in both legumes and cereals.
- Plan and conduct experiments for intended measurements in coordination with other scientists of the team.
- Develop and improve screening assays related to water capture and water saving traits in cereals and legumes.
- Develop an algorithm to translate visible images in leaf area measurements.
- Develop an algorithm to translate infrared images into leaf conductance measurement.
- Generate phenotyping data towards the genetic mapping of drought adaptation traits in different crops species
- Data analysis and preparation of reports and journal articles.
- Training of young scientists in these approaches and methods.
- Supervision of MSc and PhD students on topic related to its major core of research.
The Person:
- PhD degree in Plant Physiology, Horticulture, Agronomy, or related discipline with strong background in abiotic stress physiology, with at least 5-10 years of post-doctoral experience.
- Experience with assay development and physiological assessment of drought tolerance, in particular in legumes.
- Background in molecular biology is an advantage, in particular knowledge in QTL mapping.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Ability to perform effectively in a multi-cultural and multidisciplinary environment.
- Creativity and ability to work independently and in team-based environment.
- Statistical knowledge to develop adapted designs for large field or controlled environment trials, and knowledge of computer software to assist in the treatment of images will be a plus.
Period and Remuneration:
The position is initially for three years and may be extended depending on requirement, funding availability, and performance of the incumbent. An attractive compensation will be offered for the right candidate.
How to Apply:
The application should include up-to-date Curriculum Vitae, a statement of the competencies and experience for the position, date of availability, and the names and addresses (including phone/e-mail) of three referees. Applicants from the Indian NARS/Universities should submit their applications through proper channel. All applications will be acknowledged but 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.
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