Research Officer II - Seed Procurement at International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI)

International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI)

Position: Research Officer II - Seed Procurement

Job Time: Full-Time

Job Type: Contract

Place of Work: Addis Ababa - Ethiopia

Salary: Birr 54,708

Posted date: 5 months ago

Deadline: Submition date is over

The Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) and World Agroforestry (ICRAF) seek to recruit a Research Officer I – Seed Procurement who will manage and coordinate the planning, exploration, collection, processing, testing, storage, documentation, and distribution of tree seed accessions related to the activities of the project and other collaborating partners.

The Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) and World Agroforestry (ICRAF) envision a more equitable world where trees in all landscapes, from drylands to the humid tropics, enhance the environment and well-being for all. CIFOR and ICRAF are non-profit science institutions that build and apply evidence to today’s most pressing challenges, including energy insecurity and the climate and biodiversity crises. Over a combined total of 65 years, we have built vast knowledge on forests and trees outside of forests in agricultural landscapes (agroforestry). Using a multidisciplinary approach, we seek to improve lives and to protect and restore ecosystems. Our work focuses on innovative research, partnering for impact, and engaging with stakeholders on policies and practices to benefit people and the planet. Founded in 1993 and 1978, CIFOR and ICRAF are members of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR), a global research partnership for a food-secure future dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing food and nutrition security, and improving natural resources.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage the seed procurement activities of PATSPO II, incl. tree seed for seed orchard establishments with partners;
• Conduct research activities and prepare seed portfolios that will support the timely implementation and procurement of seeds in line with the Annual Work Plans (AWP);
• Coordinate the monitoring of seed demand and collection planning and implementation with the Regional Tree Seed Centre (RTSC) Heads and Ethiopian Forestry Development (EFD);
• Contribute to the sourcing of seed sources through identification and description of existing seed sources to be included in the National Tree Seed Source Registry (NTSSR);
• Support the Seed Source Officer (SSO) in his/her efforts to establish seed sources in line with the Annual Work Plans;
• Develop training materials and participate in organizing and delivering of training, including training of farmer groups in tree seed collection;
• Conduct applied seed research on developing appropriate species-wise techniques for monitoring fruit formation, seed processing, storage and testing of seeds of priority species at the RTSCs and EFD;
• In collaboration with the Regional Centre Heads, the Tree Seed Technology Coordination (TSTC) and the Capacity and Outreach Officer, develop guidelines for seed crop assessment, seed collection, processing, and storage, pre-treatment and sowing of priority species in Ethiopia;
• Prepare guidelines for and support seed processing activities/routines and seed testing at the RTSCs and EFD;
• Prepare inputs to the AWPs and the Annual Progress Reports (APRs).
• Plan and organize meetings, and other internal and external project-related meetings as required.
• Responsible for monitoring and tracking subject matter budgets.

Minimum Requirements:

Education

• MSc. degree in forestry or related field with a postgraduate specialization in seed procurement and/ seed technology, and with a general and broad understanding of tree improvement

Experience:

• A minimum of 5 years post-graduate working experience including experience in practical work with tree seed (procurement, testing, storing and dissemination) and research in seed procurement/seed technology. Post-graduate studies in either of the two subjects and/or experience from similar positions elsewhere will be considered an additional advantage.

Skills:

• Familiarity with development and relevant research techniques in the subject matters.
• Ability to plan work with multi-faceted activities in the office as well as in the field.
• Computer literacy i.e. knowledge in MS Office.
• Ability to analyze data and prepare progress records and reports.
• Updates relevant manuals/protocols
• Flexible work hours including travel and extended fieldwork.
• Follows policies and procedures.
• Prepares progress reports for review.
• Aware of the impact of own work
• Make decisions within your own area of work and request approval from your supervisor when needed.

Duty Station: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Job Grade: HG 14

Monthly Base Salary: Birr 54,708 (Negotiable depending on the salary history of the candidate).

Terms of Appointment: This is a National Staff (NS) position, initial appointment is fixed term for eighteen months with the possibility of renewal, contingent upon individual performance and the availability of funding. The ILRI remuneration package for nationally recruited staff in Ethiopia includes very competitive salaries and benefits such as life and medical insurance, offshore pension plans, etc. The ILRI campus is set in a secure, attractive campus in Addis Ababa. Dining and sports facilities are located on-site.