Research Associate (Sustainable Intensification Program)

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), on behalf of the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) in Zambia invites applications from suitable dynamic and self-motivated Zambian nationals to fill up the following position in the EU-SIFAZ project:

Research Associate (Sustainable Intensification Program) – Ref No: SARAH/RASIP/04/19

Under the direct supervision of the Project Manager and the Principal Cropping Systems Agronomist in the EU-SIFAZ project, the Research Associate (Sustainable Intensification Program) will oversee and support the management and execution of field trials in three regions of Zambia.

Major duties and responsibilities

Work Tasks

• Support the CIMMYT scientists in executing research tasks on sustainable intensification under SIFAZ
• Apply research techniques and procedures of high complexity and specialization in a specific part of the overall project
• Conduct trainings in trial locations
• Participate in different types of meetings (planning meetings, farmer meetings, field tours, farmer-to- farmer exchange etc.)
• Supervise the establishment of demos and trials in three regions of Zambia
• Collect detailed agronomic and biophysical data within demos and trials of the project
• Support other research activities on mechanization and socio economic research, where needed

Communication

• Liaise with CIMMYT, other members of the SIFAZ, and District and Provincial authorities
• Attend working visits to other CIMMYT field trials and/or research stations
• Communicate frequently to the PI on sustainable intensification data and trials, project progress and coordination

Research Inventory and maintenance

• Keep a check on inventories of products and materials used and request a replacement when required
• Verify that equipment and facilities are in good operating condition and report any maintenance needed

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree (BSc) in Agronomy, Soil Science or related field
• At least 5 years of field experience and working with farmers
• Ability to analyze data, situations or problems, evaluate possible courses of action and choice
• Good understanding of English and ability to communicate orally on daily routine matters; review literature, draft questionnaires, write draft reports etc.
• Proficiency in one or two local languages used at post or depending on project-specific needs.
• Read and respond appropriately to correspondence, orally and in writing.
• The RA is required to travel extensively between trial locations in Southern, Eastern and Northern Provinces of Zambia to check on progress of different research teams and report back to the PI.
• High level of cultural sensitivity to understand the needs of all staff and partners. High level of responsibility and discretion and ability work under pressure. Effective team leadership.

Duty Station: Lusaka, Zambia

General information: The contracts will be for an initial period of three years. Renewal is dependent on performance and availability of funds.

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