Poverty and Social Inclusion Specialist, Mexico

Description:

We are seeking an experienced, dynamic, innovative, self-motivated, and results-oriented social scientist to strengthen our core gender and social inclusiveness team within our multidisciplinary research-for-development. The specialist will contribute to and enhance the poverty reduction potential and social inclusiveness of maize and wheat innovations across the developing world. You will work as a member of CIMMYT's Socio-Economics Program in close collaboration with CIMMYT's other programs, the WHEAT and MAIZE Consortium Research Programs, and with local and international partners.

The International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center, known by its Spanish acronym, CIMMYT®, is a not-for-profit research and training organization with partners in over 100 countries. Please refer to our website for more information: www.cimmyt.org

The position will be based in Mexico at CIMMYT's headquarters (located 45 km northeast of Mexico City, Mexico). Frequent travel to rural intervention areas in Africa, Asia and Latin America is required.

Specific duties of this position include:

• Assess targeted wheat and maize innovations for the poor and marginalized sections of society – including women – to enhance their livelihoods and reduce their vulnerability.
• Assess modes of mainstreaming social inclusiveness and gender equity into wheat and maize research-for-development in developing countries.
• Assess intermediate development outcomes and impact pathways of wheat and maize innovations by social strata.
• Use and develop analytical tools to identify, understand and target options to enhance social inclusiveness and gender equity.
• Develop a strategic research agenda and priorities to enhance social inclusiveness in maize and wheat research-for-development.
• Networking, coordination and resource mobilization to establish and strengthen a community of practice around social inclusiveness in CIMMYT and its partners.
• Publish findings in international peer reviewed journals.

We are seeking candidates with the following academic qualifications, skills and attitudes:

• PhD in, agricultural economics, development economics or a related social science field (e.g. development studies, sociology, anthropology, geography,) from a recognized institution.
• At least 8 years of relevant experience.
• Strong profile related to understanding of poverty dynamics, power relations, social inclusion/gender, sustainability and food security in developing countries.
• Experience with quantitative and qualitative research approaches.
• Proven interpersonal and cross-cultural skills, including ability to effectively interact with diverse audiences, stakeholders, colleagues and disciplines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• A high degree of personal organization, the ability to work under pressure, and willingness to travel.
• Established publication record in international peer-reviewed journals.

The position is for an initial fixed-term contract of 3 years, after which further employment is subject to performance and the continued availability of funds. CIMMYT's internationally competitive salary and benefits include housing allowance, car, comprehensive health and life insurance, assistance for children's education, paid vacation, annual airfare, contribution to a retirement plan, and generous assistance with relocation shipment.

CIMMYT is an equal opportunity employer. It fosters a multicultural work environment that values gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity. Women are encouraged to apply.

To apply for this position, please email cover letter and CV to HR, CIMMYT (Email: irsrecruitment@cgiar.org / Please indicate Position Reference number: 12341 in the header of your email). In your application, please specify where you saw this position advertised.

For further information on the selection process, please contact Guillermo Flores, at g.flores@cgiar.org

Please apply by Friday, 11 April, 2014 – although the position will remain open till filled.

Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted .