Associate Scientist, Virology Bioversity International is a research-for-development organization working with partners worldwide to use and conserve agricultural and tree biodiversity for improved livelihoods, nutrition, sustainability and productive and resilient ecosystems. Bioversity International is a member of the CGIAR Consortium, a global research partnership for a food secure future. Bioversity International has more than 300 staff and scientists’ worldwide working with almost 700 partners.
For further information on Bioversity International, consult the Web page at http://www.bioversityinternational.org Background The Commodity Systems and Genetic Resources Programme of Bioversity International pursues a systems approach to achieving rural livelihoods improvements and the sustainable use and conservation of commodity genetic resources, with emphasis on banana, cacao and coconut. The approach is based on a combination of methods and tools for the collection, characterization, evaluation and documentation of commodity genetic resources, integrated management of pests and diseases, and the analysis and development of value chains. This position responds to the need for effective and appropriate management of viruses affecting banana production in smallholder systems of Sub-Saharan Africa and global banana genetic resources conservation and movement. The position requires extensive travel to field sites in Burundi, Malawi and DR Congo, and coordination with research partners in France and Belgium. Key responsibilities Located at Bioversity’s Office in Kampala, Uganda and reporting to the Theme Leader for the Production and Value Chain Systems, the incumbent will: ? Contribute to the development of a collaborative research program for understanding host – vector – virus ecology of banana bunchy top disease (BBTD) in smallholder systems of Sub-Saharan Africa; ? Facilitate farmer/village participatory experimentation in pilot sites in BBTD-infested areas of Central and Southern Africa (Burundi, Malawi, DR Congo in Kisangani and bas Congo) focused on local clean seed systems and production; ? Support the design and implementation of improved guidelines for virus management in global banana genetic resources conservation and movement, with emphasis on banana streak virus (BSV); ? Participate in the development and implementation of the global strategy for Bioversity and the CRP Roots Tubers and Bananas on banana virus epidemiology and management, systems for clean planting material, modelling of seed degeneration and agroecological intensification of banana production systems; ? Contribute to the identification of funding opportunities for collaborative research and assist with the development of concept notes and funding proposals; ? Support collaborative participatory and formal research with a focus on high quality science and capacity strengthening with research and field partners; ? Write technical and scientific publications and engage with a variety of research and development partners to achieve outcomes and impacts for rural livelihood improvement. Qualifications and competencies: Essential qualifications & competencies: ? PhD in plant pathology or related field. Candidates with an MSc in related fields with sound field experience and record of scientific publications will be accepted, provided that the mix of academic qualifications and work experience qualifies them for the role. ? A minimum of 3 years of work experience with host-vector-virus ecology, laboratory techniques and a resulting record of peer-reviewed articles. ? Field experience in tropical agriculture, preferably Africa. ? Familiarity with and interest in participatory, gender-sensitive research and experimentation methods. ? Working knowledge of relevant software (MS Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint) and software database and advanced statistical analysis. ? Excellent communication, interpersonal and team work skills including the ability to effectively interact with people at all levels and build consensus in a multi-cultural and multi-disciplinary environment. ? Well developed project management skills. ? Well developed analytical and synthesizing skills including the ability to write clear and concise scientific documents. ? Excellent command of the English language, both written and spoken. Desirable competencies and qualifications: ? Advanced French language skills, both written and verbal. Terms and conditions: This is an internationally recruited position. Bioversity International offers an attractive remuneration package including a competitive salary, non-contributory retirement plan, medical insurance, housing allowance and leave provisions. All benefits are denominated and paid in US Dollars. The initial contract will be for a period of three years subject to a probationary period of one year. Applications: Please apply online through Bioversity Job Opportunities web page (http://www.bioversityinternational.org/about_us/job_opportunities.html) by clicking the “Apply” button, completing the online application and attaching the required information. The closing date for the vacancy is 31 August 2013, but we will continue accepting applications until the position is filled, which can be monitored in the “Job Opportunities” section of our web site. Please note that in the application you are required to provide the contact details (address, telephone number and e-mail address) of at least three referees, which Bioversity will contact for short listed applicants. Bioversity is an equal opportunity employer and strives for staff diversity. Wo
