CIMMYT is an internationally funded, non-profit research and training organization affiliated with the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research and has an annual budget of nearly US$40 million. CIMMYT’s mission is to help the poor in the developing world by increasing the productivity, profitability, and sustainability of maize and wheat-based cropping systems while protecting natural resources. The Center is a global leader in scientific research and training related to maize, wheat, in biotechnology, economics, and natural resource management research. These activities are conducted in partnership with national agricultural research systems, non-governmental organizations, and advanced research institutions, both public and private, in globally focused projects and programs.
The position
CIMMYT is seeking applications from innovative, self-motivated, outstanding Kenyan nationals for the position of Research Assistant to provide scientific and managerial support to the Program Director in implementing various socioeconomics research projects. The position will be based in Nairobi, Kenya reporting to the Program Director, Socioeconomics Program (SEP).
The primary responsibilities will include:
Research support:
- Manage existing socioeconomic databases on changing livelihood strategies, poverty, markets, and maize and wheat productivity in different regions
- Locate, assemble and analyze secondary data relevant for socioeconomics and policy research in maize and wheat systems
- Conduct econometric analysis of survey and other data using STATA or other standard statistical software
- Assist in developing research reports, articles and policy briefs
Program development:
- Conduct literature reviews and assist in preparing strategy documents and policy briefs to strengthen the research program
- Assist in developing new research initiatives, concept notes and proposals
- Develop communication materials to enhance the impact of strategic socioeconomics and policy research in different regions
- Establish and maintain contacts with collaborating organizations and partners
Project and program management:
- Organize project and program meetings and workshops and participate in scientific meetings, workshops and conferences
- Assist in project implementation and management including timely development and review of various project reports
- Develop work plans and budgets for subcontracts and collaborators and assist in reviewing budgets and work plans for program staff
- Undertake any other duties and tasks assigned by the Program Director
We are seeking a candidate with the following qualifications and experience
- M.Sc. in agricultural economics, economics, statistics or other related field
- Strong quantitative skills in econometrics and production economics
- Proven experience in data collection, field surveys, and data analysis, in particular household data and farm surveys
- Strong and demonstrated skills and experience in using STATA or any other standard econometric software package
- Work experience and good understanding of agriculture and rural development, markets and value chains, and agricultural policy in Africa and other regions
- Ability to think strategically, and coordinate, prioritize and organize his/her work efficiently and independently
- Experience in scientific writing and good communications skills in English (knowledge of other languages, e.g. Spanish will be an advantage)
- An ability to meet deadlines and work under pressure with minimal supervision
- Personal qualities including commitment, integrity, honesty, efficiency, flexibility, self-motivation, and respect for diversity
ICRAF and CIMMYT are equal opportunity employers and offer a collegial and gender-sensitive working environment. The position is on local terms and will be for an initial period of three (3) years, renewable subject to six (6) months probation period, assessment of performance, continued relevance of the position and availability of resources. Applicants are invited to send a cover letter illustrating their suitability for the above position against the listed qualifications, competencies and skills together with a detailed curriculum vitae, including names and addresses of three referees. All correspondence should be addressed to the Human Resources Unit, World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF), P.O. Box 30677, Nairobi, Kenya OR via email: icrafhru@cgiar.org. Applications will be considered until 15th November, 2009 and should indicate “Application for a Research Assistant-CIMMYT” on their application letters and email submissions.
Only short-listed applicants meeting the above requirements will be contacted.
We invite you to learn more about CIMMYT by accessing our web site:
http://www.worldagroforestry.
