IRS23144 Maize Entomologist for Africa at International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT)

Job Description

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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 countries.

Specific duties:

Actively support CIMMYT maize breeders in developing improved germplasm with resistance to major insect-pests, especially stem borers and Fall Armyworm (FAW), including efficient mass-rearing of insect-pests, artificial infestation of maize germplasm, and phenotypic data generation that contributes to stage-gate advancement of products. As a part of CGIAR Plant Health Initiative, design and implement impactful work on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) of maize insect-pests, in partnership with relevant public and private institutions, as well as through participatory engagement of extensional personnel and farming communities in eastern and southern Africa. Execute innovative entomology research in accelerating genetic improvement for insect-pest resistance in maize, including lab and field testing of Bt transgenes in the biosafety lab, greenhouse, and field as a part of TELA Project. Support the development and implementation of Insect Resistance Management (IRM) strategies that enable sustainable deployment of Bt-based insect-resistant maize in the TELA project countries. Technical backstopping and capacity strengthening of the national/regional partners on advanced areas of maize entomology, including breeding and deployment of insect pest-resistant maize germplasm, and IPM. Design and implement high-quality research that enables publications in peer reviewed journals with high impact factor. Develop and implement new project proposals in high-priority areas of CIMMYT, including IPM. Contribute to the visibility of CIMMYT’ s research, partnerships, and impacts, especially in Africa. Any other duties assigned by the supervisor or Director, CIMMYT Global Maize Program.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Agricultural Entomology. At least 5 years of research experience in agricultural entomology. Applied knowledge of experimental design, management of field trials, and field breeding operations. Experience in mass rearing of insect-pests under controlled conditions, and their effective use in screening for resistance in lab and field-based crop research. Demonstrated contributions in developing and testing appropriate technologies in controlling pre- and post- harvest insect-pests, and/or integrated pest management (IPM). Excellent computer skills and experience with SAS, SPSS, or other statistical software. Demonstrated ability to publish in refereed, high-impact scientific journals. Proficiency in spoken and written English, and good communication skills. Interest in international research and development; preferably with experience of working in Africa. The selected candidate must exhibit the following competencies: Critical and Creative Thinking, Problem Solving and Decision Making, Conflict Resolution, Communication, Teamwork, and Client Orientation.