Latest Jobs at International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT)

Specific Duties:

• Work with other genetics specialists to design and evaluate new and current breeding schemes through simulation, retrospective analysis, and pilot testing.
• Develop strategy in collaboration with breeding teams and other stakeholders and support the development of plans to optimize the use of new breeding tools and methodologies.
• Support breeding teams to ensure that target product profiles drive breeding activities and that breeding efforts are aligned to these breeding targets.
• Support the breeding teams to set up disciplined processes to select parental germplasm in a targeted manner, as well as identify and implement ways to overcome resource, logistical, and biological constraints to shorten the breeding cycle time and increase the accuracy of data prior to selection of parents.
• Contribute to the development of a training strategy and content to mentor and consult with breeding teams.
• Lead and contribute to both virtual and hands-on training and mentorship activities targeted at CGIAR-NARES breeding teams in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
• Providing support to internal and external reviews and evaluations.
• Contributing to publications derived from the breeding optimization project.
• Coordinate the molecular breeding work, particularly to enhance the adaptation to the temperate environments via genetics, genomics, and molecular biology approaches.
• Contribute to generating data on de novo genome assemblies, transcriptomes, and annotations.
• Analyze the genomic differentiation between tropical and temperate seed for key traits of interest using genome resequencing data.
• Genetic mapping of important traits associated with photoperiod sensitivity, and resistance/tolerance to major biotic and abiotic stresses in seeds.
• Cloning and validation of functional genes targeting the improvement of the seed yield and stress tolerance.
• Contribute to joint research proposals and seek opportunities for new collaborations and funding sources.
• Manuscript writing and publication of research data in high-impact journals.

Requirements

• PhD in plant breeding, quantitative genetics, biometrics, molecular genetics or plant biotechnology, or other highly related fields in genetics and breeding.
• Minimum of 4 years of relevant experience.
• Experience in private industry and/or an advanced modern breeding program is a plus.
• In-depth understanding of practical breeding applications and logistical constraints that will be relevant to breeding programs targeting the developing world (i.e., CGIAR centers, national systems, and private sector organizations).
• Expertise in statistical analysis software (R, mixed modeling, perhaps machine learning, etc.) and a creative and innovative mindset.
• A good understanding of quantitative genetics and underlying mathematical theory.
• Experience in plant gene discovery, cloning, and functional analysis.
• Expertise in using statistical analysis software (R, Python, perhaps machine learning, etc.).
• A good understanding of quantitative genetics and bioinformatics.
• Track record of high-quality publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Good reporting and communication skills in English (working language).
• The selected candidate must exhibit the following competencies: Problem-Solving, Client Orientation, Good Communication, Multicultural Awareness and Collaboration.

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Specific Duties:

• Execute CIMMYT’s breeding pipeline, ensuring efficient development, advancement, and dissemination of germplasm and products.
• Foster collaborations across areas of germplasm development, molecular breeding, rust phenotyping, and seed systems to co-implement impactful regional improvement network(s).
• Contribute to experimental design, trial, and nursery data interpretation and analyses.
• Contribute to increasing genetic gains in CIMMYT's and improvement network’s breeding pipelines, including the formulation, testing, and identification of impactful seed varieties.
• Contribute to capacity-building efforts of CIMMYT, CGIAR, and the seed's improvement network(s).
• Manage the program’s regional data, implementing the Enterprise Breeding System (EBS) for streamlined data management.
• Facilitate with the senior breeder the convening of seeds product advancement meetings, with active engagement of internal and external stakeholders.
• Collaborate with regional improvement teams to optimize trial locations and align them with product pipeline testing requirements.
• Lead a team of research technicians, fostering a culture of ownership and accountability.
• Assist the technical stations staff in implementing best practices.
• Enhance the visibility of CIMMYT's research, partnerships, and impacts through the publication of high-quality journal articles.
• Perform additional duties assigned by the supervisor and Program Director to support program objectives.

Requirements

• PhD in breeding or a closely related field with demonstrated expertise in seed breeding.
• Minimum of 4 years of relevant experience.
• Expertise in one, with familiarity in the other areas of biometrics and statistics, quantitative genetics, and applied molecular breeding.
• Excellent written and spoken English
• Desire and ability to work respectfully and inclusively in a diverse, multicultural, multidisciplinary work environment.
• The selected candidate must exhibit the following competencies: Problem-Solving, Decision making, Achievement Orientation, Communication, and Teamwork

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Catalyze Research and Innovation Through Visionary Leadership:

• Drive Strategic Excellence: As a member of CIMMYT's leadership team, you will translate CIMMYT's 2030 Strategy into reality through the Global Maize Program (GMP), integrating core research strengths with innovative program development.
• Lead Transformative Initiatives: Spearhead strategic initiatives, leveraging CIMMYT's unique capabilities to elevate the quality and global impact of our maize research.
• Ensure Scientific Rigor: Provide technical oversight and quality assurance for the GMP, fostering an environment where innovative science and operational excellence converge.

Elevate and Advocate CIMMYT’s Maize Research Agenda Globally:

• Stay at the Forefront: Keep abreast of global advancements in agricultural research, utilizing these insights to strengthen CIMMYT's maize policies and drive actionable outcomes.
• Champion Global Influence: Represent CIMMYT in international forums and meetings as a Leadership Team member and Director of one of its key programs, advocating for and advancing our research agenda with key stakeholders.
• Drive Strategic Collaboration: Actively engage in governance, strategic decision-making, and resource allocation, ensuring the GMP's alignment with CIMMYT's broader institutional priorities.

Champion Strategic Resource Mobilization:

• Forge Funding Pathways: Lead efforts to secure financial support by overseeing grants, projects, and intellectual property management, working closely with scientists and operational staff.
• Optimize Resource Allocation: Manage the GMP's research budget effectively, ensuring robust funding streams that align with CIMMYT's strategic objectives.
• Empower and Inspire: Collaborate with other Program Directors and HR to align staffing with research needs, motivating and leading scientific teams to uphold CIMMYT's high standards.

Requirements

• Possess a Ph.D. in Plant Breeding, Genetics, or a closely related agricultural science field, with a significant publication record and demonstrable project leadership. The ideal candidate will have an excellent understanding of the characteristics, processes, and indicators essential for managing a world-class, science-based breeding program.
• A minimum of 10-15 years in senior management positions within renowned nonprofit organizations, foundations, corporate sectors, or government agencies, with a commanding track record in scientific leadership and executive oversight.
• A global perspective grounded in international and developing country experience, driven by a deep commitment to elevating living standards in emerging economies.
• A history of achieving exceptional outcomes, earning esteem for a cooperative and inclusive approach, and contributing to a culture of excellence.
• Versatility in managing a multitude of tasks and priorities within a dynamic, fast-paced environment, exemplifying agility, and strategic multitasking.
• Proven expertise in forging and nurturing relationships with a broad spectrum of individuals, across diverse backgrounds and disciplines.
• An innate ability to navigate the intricacies of international diplomacy with finesse, employing tact and discretion as fundamental tools of engagement.
• Strong communication skills, with fluency in English required and additional language proficiency desirable.
• You exhibit the following competencies: Strategic Impact, Operational Efficiency, People Management, Networking and Communication, and Individual Impact.