The Nature Conservancy is hiring a Senior Scientist to work on a new collaboration with a major agricultural company. We’re looking for someone with good experience in agriculture science-related fields, including sustainable agriculture best management practices, experience internationally and with the private sector, ability to both think strategically and do hands-on science, and great communication skills.
https://careers.nature.org/psp/tnccareers/APPLICANT/APPL/c/HRS_HRAM.HRS_APP_SCHJOB.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_JBPST&Action=U&FOCUS=Applicant&SiteId=1&JobOpeningId=46117&PostingSeq=1<https://careers.nature.org/psp/tnccareers/APPLICANT/APPL/c/HRS_HRAM.HRS_APP_SCHJOB.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_JBPST&Action=U&FOCUS=Applicant&SiteId=1&JobOpeningId=46117&PostingSeq=1> The Senior Scientist will be the science lead for a major collaboration between The Nature Conservancy and a large agricultural corporation. The person in this role will provide scientific and technical input and oversight into both global initiatives and projects in key geographies around the world, including North America, Latin America, China, and Africa. The person in this role will need expertise in agricultural science-related discipline(s) and experience with agricultural regulatory frameworks, as well as demonstrated ability to collaborate and lead research across disciplines and sectors. The person in this role will report to the Center for Sustainability Science, and will work closely with the Managing Director Agriculture & Food Systems in Global Lands as well as with the Corporate Engagement Collaboration Manager in the Corporate Engagement Program. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS The Senior Scientist will play several key roles in the collaboration. The person in this role will be on point for ensuring the collaboration is built on a foundation of robust, consistent, and transparent science. This includes: · designing metrics and tools to drive better agricultural and environmental outcomes · providing scientific input and review in the design of regional projects · researching and speaking to complex issues (e.g. pesticides, GMOs, regulatory incentives and restrictions, trade-offs between desired outcomes, etc.) · brainstorming and creative thinking around novel opportunities in sustainable agriculture. In addition to having an agricultural science background, critical thinking skills, and being able to quickly research emerging issues, the person in this role will also require excellent communication and collaboration skills to apply their findings within the collaboration and be an external spokesperson for the work. The person in this role will work with teams across the Conservancy, including other scientists and conservation staff, corporate engagement staff as well as developing and managing external research partnerships. RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE · Work on a global project with a diverse set of teams around the world. · Provide the science and analysis vision, set direction for science research and implementation, and maintain scientific credibility through peer reviewed publications, research and communications. · Review project proposals to assess scientific merit and resource needs, and provide ongoing scientific support to regional projects. · Translate complex scientific issues into clear and compelling practical recommendations. · For challenging issues with complex trade-offs, research alternative approaches, make recommendations for agricultural practices, design metrics, and identify key areas of concern. · May include field work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, in hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances. · Significant travel expected; 20-30% of time (global) MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS · Master's Degree in agricultural science-related field (e.g. agronomy / plant and crop sciences, agricultural engineering, environmental toxicology, etc.) and 6 years related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience. · Record of peer reviewed publications in scientific journals. · Experience with building relationships, including with the private sector. · Excellent team player with experience working in multi-disciplinary groups, using influence and interpersonal skills, listening, diplomacy and tact to build strong relationships with corporations, partners, donors, volunteers, and all levels of staff. · Ability to diagnose complex problems and identify solutions. · Excellent communication skills, written, spoken and graphical. · International experience required. DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS · Expertise desired in agricultural regulatory frameworks, business / corporate environment, pesticides, integrated pest management, GMOs and other novel forms of crops, economics, and ecosystem services. · Experience working with diverse sets of stakeholders. · Experience with GIS, spatial analysis, remote sensing, and information systems. · PhD preferred and 3-5 years related experience considered. · Ability to operate within budget guidelines to ensure sound financial performance. · Multi-language skills (especially Swahili, Spanish, or Mandarin). Multi-cultural or cross cultural experience · appreciated · Commitment to the mission and values of The Nature Conservancy, although no prior experience in environmental conservation is required Stephen Wood Applied Scientist, The Nature Conservancy Associate Research Scientist, Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies 370 Prospect Street New Haven, CT USA 06511 Skype: stephen.andrew.wood http://www.stephenandrewwood.com<http://www.stephenandrewwood.com/>
