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Job Title: Head, Genetic Resources Center
Ref: DDG-R4D/HGRC/10/11
Location: Ibadan, Nigeria
Organisation: International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA)
Sector: International Non-Profit Research-For-Development (R4D) Organization
Description:
• IITA is looking for a suitably qualified person to fill the position of Head, Genetic Resources Center (GRC). IITA maintains a large genebank of both seed-based and clonally propagated species, such as cassava, yam, Musa, cowpea, soybean, maize and others.
• This genebank is the basis of the GRC that encapsulates the collections, the databases, research on the collections, and links to the users of the collections.
• The Head of GRC will give leadership to this effort and ensure the effective conservation and use of the collection within IITA and externally.
Position/Responsibilities:
Provide essential oversight and leadership of the genetic resources research program, primarily within sub-Saharan Africa.
• Secure maintenance and preservation of the international collections maintained at IITA and update standard international operational procedures as appropriate.
• Maintain a strong research program on secure conservation methods for clonally propagated crops.
• Develop a strong research program on germplasm characterization, combining agromorphological and molecular data with the objective of a) evaluating the diversity of the collections and b) developing decision support tools for optimization of germplasm management.
• Develop germplasm evaluation programs in collaboration with respective breeding programs.
• Work closely with the Germplasm Health Unit on germplasm indexing and sanitation.
• Supervise all germplasm exchanges and ensure harmony with the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture.
• Contribute to capacity building in the conservation and use of plant genetic resources worldwide.
• Take part in the development of global conservation strategies.
Educational Qualifications:
• PhD degree in plant breeding, genetics, conservation biology or related areas.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience in genetic resource conservation of seed and clonally propagated collections, molecular genetics, molecular taxonomy/phylogeny, or any other related field.
Core Competencies:
• Substantial experience in plant genetic resources conservation and use.
• Familiarity with in situ conservation.
• Experience in management of genebank operations with multiple species.
• Publication in high ranking scientific journals on ex situ conservation of plant genetic resources, genetic resource diversity assessment or evaluation, or conservation of clonally propagated species.
• Experience with database management.
• Ability to create strong and sustainable links with diverse partners.
• Ability to work as a member of a multi-disciplinary team in a cross-cultural environment.
• Excellent leadership, interpersonal, and team building skills.
• Knowledge of sub-Saharan Africa and good contacts with NARS scientists in the region is an added advantage.
• Proficiency with written and spoken English; knowledge of French is an asset.
Duty station: IITA-Ibadan, Nigeria but with extensive travel within the region.
General information: Initial appointment is for three years. IITA offers a competitive remuneration package paid in US dollars.
Method of Applications:
Applications including curriculum vitae, names and addresses of three referees should be addressed to the Human Resources Manager.
Please complete IITA online application form using this link: IITA Online Job Application Portal (http://www.iita.org/nrs-online-application).
Closing Date: The position will remain open until a suitable candidate is found.
Source: IITA Career Portal.