Position announcement for

Plant Breeder, INGER Coordinator

The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) is seeking a plant breederto be a member of its internationally recruited staff. IRRI, supported by the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (), is a nonprofit, autonomous organization engaged in research and training on rice-related technology. Interested candidates can learn more about IRRI and its activities by visiting . The position will be based in the Institute’s Plant Breeding, Genetics and Biotechnology Division, with an initial appointment of 3 years and renewable for subsequent multi-year contracts. Renewal is subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funding. The successful candidate will serve as Coordinator for the International Network for the Genetic Evaluation of Rice (INGER) and develop a breeding program for traits emerging from IRRI’s new strategic plan. INGER promotes exchange and testing of rice germplasm through the active participation of national agricultural research and extension systems (NARES) and international agricultural research centers under the framework of relevant international and national agreements and legislations.

Responsibilities

As part of IRRI’s multidisciplinary research team, the breeder will

  • In consultation with national rice improvement programs, develop a new vision for INGER.
  • Coordinate INGER in collaboration with IRRI’s plant breeders, GeneticResourcesCenter, and Seed Health Unitand curate INGER data as part of the International Rice Information System ().
  • Manage INGER operations to ensure the timely and safe delivery of rice germplasm to collaborators in the network and provide leadership in improving seed management and exchangeand access to and use of information on the performance and adaptation of rice germplasm.
  • Mobilize new financial resources for the sustained development and functioning of INGER.
  • Devise and conduct a breeding program focusing on abiotic stresses and objectives emerging from IRRI’s new strategic plan, and
  • Develop externally funded projects to support the breeding program.

Qualifications

Candidates should have 1) a PhD in plant breeding, genetics or an allied discipline, with at least 5 years of experience in plant breeding or genetics; 2) interpersonal skills for effective teamwork and sensitivities to a cross-cultural work environment;3) familiarity with the international agreements and treaties regarding plant germplasm exchange and related intellectual properties issues; and 4) skills and experience in managing participatory networks especially involving developing countries. The position requires extensive international and regional travel.

Perquisites and IRRI environment

IRRI, located at Los Baños, 70 kilometers south of Manila, Philippines, offers salary and perquisites that are internationally competitive including support for education of children, car and housing at reasonable rental rates, and medical and retirement benefits. IRRI provides a gender-sensitive environment and welcomes women applicants. Citizens of developing countries, particularly rice-producing countries, are encouraged to apply. The Institute is committed to assisting families in making personal and, to the extent possible, professional adjustments to the local environment. IRRI has an accredited international school (pre-K to grade 5) and, excellent preparatory schools for younger children are available locally.

Applications

Send comprehensive curriculum vitae and names and email addresses of three referees to:

Ms. Selene M. Ocampo

Officer-HR Coordination

International Rice Research Institute

DAPO Box 777,

Metro Manila, Philippines

Tel: (63-2) 891-1292/580-5600

Fax: (63-2) 580-5699

Email:

Applications will be accepted until 24 April 2006.