We are seeking a dynamic, innovative, self-motivated, and service-oriented professional for the position of Cropping Systems Specialist at the (Associate) Scientist level, depending on the experience and qualifications of the successful candidate, to work at the Global Conservation Agriculture Program in Latin America. 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 offices (particularly in Latin America) on a regular basis.

Specific duties of this position will include:

• Develop and coordinate a network of research platforms for agronomic and post-harvest research with collaborators in Mexico to address research gaps and identify sustainable technologies for extension to farmers.
• Develop strategic research on entomology including in-situ post-harvest management in maize- and wheat-based cropping systems.
• Promote partnerships, facilitate dialogue and collaborative work with multiple stakeholders, including research institutes and private sector partners.
• Scope worldwide research on entomology, in-situ post-harvest and food loss prevention, identifying key findings that can be relevant to the work of GCAP.
• Interact closely and develop strategic research with CIMMYT and its partners' agronomists and pathologists.
• Develop meta-analyses of research platform results and communicate these results to diverse communities, including scientists, farmers, change agents, policy makers and donors.
• Capacity building with researchers from the National Agricultural Research Systems and farm advisors in Latin America, related to agronomic and post-harvest research and post-harvest storage techniques.
• Supervise technical staff in the collaborative research team.

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

• PhD in Entomology, Agronomy, or a closely related field.
• Significant and demonstrated experience in field-based cropping systems and entomology research.
• Significant and demonstrated experience in post-harvest management.
• Excellent data management and analysis skills and a record of high quality scientific publications.
• Computer literacy, with proficiency in the common software packages.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and Spanish.
• Ability to integrate and synthesize information from different sources.
• Commitment to advances in farm productivity and poverty reduction in the developing world.
• Willingness to spend time away from home (mostly travelling in Mexico and Guatemala)
• High standards of professional ethics, strong organizational skills, analytical and creative thinking, and an ability to contribute proactively to a results-oriented, multi-cultural and multi-disciplinary team.

The position is for an initial fixed-term for 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 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.

Candidates must apply here for 15824 Cropping Systems Specialist no later than Friday, 2 October 2015. Incomplete applications (CV and Cover Letter) will not be taken into consideration. Cover Letter should refer explicitly to the essential qualifications, skills, and attitudes stated above.

For further information on the selection process, please contact Daniel Ixtla, at d.ixtla@cgiar.org

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