Scientist, Senior Systems Agronomist
CIMMYT, Zimbabwe

• Lead an internationally recognized program on systems research in East and Southern Africa.
• Mentor CIMMYT junior staff.
• Lead (scientific leadership, coordination, and management) medium to large investments in Africa.
• Expertise in cutting edge systems analysis to support partners in the design, evaluation and refining of innovations in East and Southern Africa.
• Provide leadership in capacity building and technical backstopping to National Agricultural Research Systems (NARES), and public-private partnerships.
• Lead multidisciplinary research in collaboration with national and international partners.
• Communicate research results to a diverse audience, including scientists, change agents, policymakers, the media, and farmers.
• Leadership in generating bilateral funding in East and Southern Africa for s systems research.
• Publish research findings in open access formats and ensure monitoring and evaluation and reporting efforts are met.
• Ensure development and maintenance of scientific data management system, where open data standards are met, including uploading data sets, with appropriate meta-data.
• Other duties as assigned by the program director.

Requirements

• PhD degree in Plant Sciences, Agroecology, Agronomy, Soil Science, Environmental Science, Farming Systems, or a closely related field.
• At least eight years of experience with agronomic experimentation, including experience with on-farm research, and experience with modern data analytical and synthesis, including statistical and modeling software program.
• Strong record of publications, including lead authorship of high-quality scientific publication and experience in translating research results into media formats to reach a broad audience.
• Proven ability to carry out educational or extension activities to support capacity development and work in gender-aware, multi-cultural environments and in multi-disciplinary teams.
• Experience in managing medium to large research teams.
• Project management experience and experience with donors and relationship building would be a plus.
• Proven resource mobilization track record.
• High proficiency in written and spoken English.
• Willingness to spend considerable time away from home.
• Desire and ability to work respectfully and inclusively in a diverse, multicultural, multidisciplinary work environment.
• The selected candidate must exhibit the following competencies: Client Orientation, Negotiation and Conflict Resolution, Problem Solving and Decision-Making, Communication and Teamwork.

Benefits

The position is for an initial fixed term of three (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 home travel airfare, contribution to a retirement plan, and generous assistance with relocation shipment.

Job Rewards and Benefits