The Scientific Officer for ICRISAT at the World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF) is crucial for managing and executing agricultural research protocols, particularly focusing on mandate crops like sorghum, pearl millet, finger millet, groundnuts, chickpea, and pigeonpea. This role requires extensive field experience, rigorous data management, and the ability to supervise teams and collaborate effectively with partners.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Plan and execute experimental protocols and performance trials in the field for sorghum, pearl millet, finger millet, groundnuts, chickpea, and pigeonpea.
- Operate research equipment, taking detailed notes, entering data using internal IT systems, and ensuring compliance with seed stewardship standards.
- Capture data using iOS operating systems (desktop computing, iPhones, iPads), the Breeding Management System (BMS), and conduct data quality checks and assurance to enable the timely advancement of the six mandate crops.
- Conduct data quality check and assurance to facilitate the timely development of project reports and the scaling of selected technologies to the last mile.
- Write progressive reports, manuals, and scientific articles.
- Supervise and motivate labor, and conduct capacity building for farmers, students, and other collaborators.
- Manage relationships with co-operators/partners to ensure timely completion and integrity of collected data.
- Support the project Principal Investigator (PI) in the procurement of farm inputs and consumables, and ensure their timely delivery.
Requirements and Qualifications
Education and Experience
- Master’s degree in Plant Breeding, Agronomy, or related fields.
- Minimum of 3 years’ experience in the field.
- At least 2 years of experience in a research institution and a thorough understanding of plant breeding.
- Practical experience in field experimental work.
- Experience in a research environment, specifically in field layout, data analysis, and good crop husbandry practices.
- Experience working in multi-cultural and interdisciplinary teams is preferable.
- Experience in an international organization environment will be an added advantage.
Skills and Attributes
- Sound interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as in a team setting.
- Ability to prioritize and organize work efficiently and independently.
- Ability to meet deadlines and work under pressure with minimal supervision.
- Good interpersonal skills, integrity, honesty, and self-motivation.
- Computer literacy in MS Office.