Cropping Systems Agronomist - Post-Doctoral/Associate Scientist

We are seeking a dynamic, innovative, self-motivated, and service-orientated professional for the position of Cropping Systems Agronomist at the Post-Doctoral or Associate Scientist level, depending on the experience and qualifications of the successful candidate, to work within the Global Conservation Agriculture Program, Latin-America, that forms part of the Global Conservation Agriculture Program. The position is part of an ambitious strategic research program that generates knowledge to support CIMMYT’s Cropping Systems Management and Conservation Agriculture activities worldwide.

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 at CIMMYT’s Main Campus (located 45 km northeast of Mexico City, Mexico) but will interact with all CIMMYT´s experimental stations and regional office (country and world-wide) on a regular basis.

Specific duties of this position include:

• Develop strategic research on genotype by system (tillage, residue management, irrigation practices, etc.) interactions, looking at the relation between practices based on the principles of conservation agriculture (CA) and wheat genotype.
• Cultivate partnerships with advanced research institutes to strengthen the strategic research capacity.
• Interact closely and develop strategic research with the CIMMYT breeders, physiologists and pathologists.
• Interact closely with private sector partners.
• Collaborate with CIMMYT staff, national and international partners to build integrated approaches to increase the productivity of farming systems while improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers.
• Communicate research results to diverse communities, including scientists, change agents, policy makers and farmers.
• Provide practical training to researchers from the National Agricultural Research Systems in developing countries world-wide.

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

• Ph.D. in Agronomy, Breeding, Physiology or a closely related field.
• Significant and demonstrated experience in cropping systems research.
• Record of high quality scientific publications.
• Computer literacy, with proficiency in the common software packages.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; Knowledge of Spanish will be an advantage.
• Commitment to advances in farm productivity and poverty reduction in the developing world.
• Willingness to spend considerable time away from home, and high standards of professional ethics.
• Ability to integrate and syntesize information from different sources.
• Strong organizational skills, analytical and creative thinking, and an ability to contribute proactively to a results-oriented, multi-cultural and multi-disciplinary team.

We will offer an initial contract for two years, which may be renewable subject to continued need and funding for the position and performance of the staff member. Our 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.

How to apply:

To apply for this position, please email cover letter and CV no later than Friday, 12 September, 2014to Human Resources, CIMMYT (Email: irsrecruitment@cgiar.org / Please indicate Position Reference number:12358in the header of your email). For further information on the selection process, please contact Guillermo Flores, at g.flores@cgiar.org. Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.