Job Description
The Research and Extension Unit (DDNR) provides advisory and technical services to FAO members to support the development of Agricultural Innovation Systems (AIS). Agricultural research systems and an integrated approach to agricultural research and extension are considered key factors for the achievement of a sustainable increase and improvement of the provision of services and goods by agricultural producers. The priorities of FAO’s work in agricultural research include assessing current research policies, institutions and organizations and supporting their strengthening. Under the general supervision of the Senior Agricultural Research Officer, Research and Extension Unit, DDNR, the incumbent will:
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contribute to the development of concepts, methodologies, guidelines and indicators for agriculture innovation systems;
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advise member countries on policy formulation for the establishment, development and management of effective, efficient agricultural innovation systems to promote the adoption of practices that increase and improve the provision of goods and services in a sustainable manner;
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advise on the design of policies and strategies for developing national, regional and international capacities for research and generation, assessment and adoption of innovative and sustainable practices to facilitate the transition towards more sustainable agricultural production systems;
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provide technical advice to member countries on policy formulation, strategic planning and institutional set-up of agricultural research;
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contribute to the establishment and strengthening of partnerships with the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR), the Global Forum for Agricultural Research (GFAR), science and technology organizations of the UN system and other regional and international research organizations and fora, as well as relevant governmental and non-governmental research and innovation organizations;
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liaise with donors, technical assistance organizations, national, agricultural research organizations and networks on initiatives and activities to improve agricultural innovation systems;
- advise on the identification, formulation and implementation of, and provide technical backstopping to, national, regional and international projects to strengthen capacities in agricultural research and innovation;
- organize conferences, seminars, workshops and other events on agricultural research and innovation;
- perform other related duties as required.
Candidates should meet the following minimum requirements:
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Advanced University Degree in Agricultural Sciences or a related field
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Seven years of relevant experience in planning, managing, organizing and evaluating agricultural research and innovation systems and programmes in developing countries
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Working knowledge of two of the following languages: English, French, or Spanish
Candidates will be assessed against the following selection criteria:
- Extent of experience in research planning, organization and management in developed and developing countries.
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Extent of experience in advisory capacity at national and international levels in the field of agricultural research
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Work experience in more than one location or area of work, particularly in field positions is desirable
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Familiarity with international research systems, particularly with the CGIAR and GFAR and the regional fora.
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Demonstrated initiative, ability to plan, organize and supervise the work of others
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Quality of both oral and written communication skills
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Knowledge of a third language, among the languages mentioned above, is an asset
Additional details: All candidates should possess computer/word processing skills and should be capable of working with people of different national and cultural backgrounds.
Please note that the contract type is fixed-term, 2 years.
About the Organization
An intergovernmental organization, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has 194 Member Nations, two associate members and one member organization, the European Union. Achieving food security for all is at the heart of FAO's efforts - to make sure people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. FAO's mandate is to raise levels of nutrition, improve agricultural productivity, better the lives of rural populations and contribute to the growth of the world economy.
