Soil Scientist (Scientist or Senior Scientist Level) IRRI, New Delhi, India

aus: http://irri.org/index.php?option=com_job...tid=1&lyt=table

Soil Scientist (Scientist or Senior Scientist Level)
About this job



Apply by: 31 March 2012

The Cereal Systems Initiative for South Asia (CSISA) was established in 2009 to support regional and national efforts on improving cereal production growth in South Asia’s most important grain baskets. The overall goal of CSISA is to increase food and income security through the accelerated development and inclusive deployment of new varieties, sustainable and productive management technologies, and innovative policies. Operating in hubs in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Pakistan, CSISA links several CGIAR research programs (CRPs) and a wide range of public, private, and civil society sector partners in the region. IRRI is seeking a dynamic, creative soil scientist to lead the nutrient management research and delivery activities in CSISA. He/She will conduct research on developing and verifying principles and guidelines for site-specific nutrient management in rice-based cropping systems, with a particular emphasis on mechanized conservation agriculture systems. He/She will lead the development of innovative software applications for improved nutrient management in South Asia, with a particular emphasis on web and mobile phone applications for farmers and extension specialists. He/She will actively participate in the delivery and evaluation of these tools to large numbers of farmers, working closely with the CSISA hub teams and a wide range of local partners. As a member of an interdisciplinary team, he/she will conduct basic and applied soil science and agronomy research on ecological intensification solutions for future cereal-based systems in South Asia.


Duties

This position involves all aspects of leading a research program on nutrient and soil management in South Asia. Specific responsibilities include the following:

1. Lead IRRI’s nutrient management research and dissemination activities in South Asia. Coordinate and align activities with those of other scientists from IRRI and partner institutions.

2. Conduct research to understand the interactions and tradeoff of resource management and conservation agriculture on soil chemical, physical, and biological processes. Contribute to adaptive on-farm research on resource-conserving technologies for conservation agriculture.

3. Develop, evaluate, and disseminate nutrient management decision tools for extension professionals and farmers in South Asia, with particular emphasis on web and mobile phone applications for rice and maize.

4. Contribute soil science and nutrient management expertise to the interdisciplinary CSISA teams working in Objectives 1 (Delivery) and 2 (Future cereal systems). Lead planning and reporting for hub-based work on the development and dissemination of rice-based technologies; mentor hub-based staff (agronomists, extensionists)

5. Seek opportunities for new partnerships and mobilize funds from traditional and nontraditional sources. Develop strategic and business relationships with public and private sector partners for the customization and widespread delivery of nutrient management decision tools in South Asia.

6. Organize trainings and workshops on soil and nutrient management technologies and tools.

7. Publish research findings in international refereed journals as well as extension materials.

Qualification requirements:


PhD in soil science, agronomy, or a related discipline.
At least 3 years of post-PhD research experience, with a strong background in soil science and nutrient management, and demonstrated ability to develop and implement a R&D program in that area.
Excellent written and spoken English
Excellent understanding of the principles of soil fertility, soil health, and nutrient management in intensive crop production systems
Knowledge of modern approaches and decision tools for nutrient management in cereal crops
Demonstrated ability to conduct high-quality lab-to-field research
Ability to build and manage interdisciplinary teams and partnerships
Good interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills

Screening will start on 31 March 2012 and will continue until a suitable candidate has been found.

Please indicate the position reference number in the e-mail subject line. IRRI regrets that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

IRRI provides a multicultural work environment that reflects the values of gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity, with a competitive compensation and benefit package. Women are encouraged to apply.

Join us to deliver rice science for a better world

Interested candidates should apply online (click apply now). Should you encounter problems applying online please email at irrirecruitment@irri.org.