ICRISAT seeks applications from Indian nationals and nationals from the Asian countries for Visiting Scientist (Breeding) , to be based at Patancheru, Andhra Pradesh, India .
ICRISAT is a non-profit, apolitical, international organization for science-based agricultural development. Established in 1972, it is a Future Harvest center of the Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research (CGIAR), it is one of 15 centers of the CGIAR, and supported by more than 50 governments, foundations, and development banks. To reduce poverty, enhance crop productivity and food security and to protect the environment, ICRISAT research focuses on farming systems and crop improvement, management and utilization of sorghum, pearl millet, pigeonpea, chickpea, and groundnut in the semi-arid tropics. ICRISAT has initiated preliminary studies on bio-fuel and vegetable crops that can fit in to the farming systems in the SAT, to improve the livelihoods of farmers.
The Job: Planning and executing field experiments involving introduction, selection, characterization and improvement of crops (including Jatropha, Pongamia and vegetables); enhancing informal village-based seed production and distribution systems; summarize, and interpret the data of the experiments; prepare reports and papers for publication in the reputed journals; and prepare project proposals for donor funding.
The Person: Scientists with PhD degree from a reputed university in plant breeding and/or genetics, with a minimum of two to five years of post-doctoral experience as plant breeder/geneticist at a research institute/university/private sector company. Knowledge of quantitative genetics theory and its application in practical plant breeding of self- and cross-pollinated crops and basic computer skills is essential. Theoretical knowledge of marker-aided selection in crop improvement will be an additional desirable requirement. Fluency in spoken and written English is essential. Candidates should not be more than 35 years of age at the time of applying. The Scientist should have aptitude to work as a member of interdisciplinary teams, including multicultural and multinational scientists, and should have the ability to interact with partner organizations.
The Reward: A consolidated assignment fee of Indian Rupees 35,000/- (in equivalent US dollars for expatriate candidates) per month will be paid during the period of assignment (higher salary can be considered based on merit). The position is initially for one year and may be extended depending on requirement, funding availability, and performance of the incumbent.
How to Apply: The application should include an up-to-date resume, names and addresses (including fax/telex/e-mail) of three referees, date of availability, and a statement of the special qualifications for this position. Applicants from the Indian NARS/ Universities should submit their applications through proper channel . Please send applications stating the job title clearly on the envelope, to Leader, Global Theme on Crop Improvement, ICRISAT, Patancheru, Andhra Pradesh 502 324, India [Fax: +91-40-30713074/30713075]. Applications by E-mail should clearly state the job title in the subject column and forwarded to , positively before 31 August 2007. Those who have applied for similar jobs in ICRISAT and not selected earlier will not be considered for these positions.
ICRISAT is an equal opportunity employer, and is especially interested in increasing participation of women on its staff.
