Senior Research Associate

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The International Potato Center (CIP) is seeking to recruit one (01) dynamic and experienced Senior Research Associate to ensure the activities and support the implementation of  the “Integration of Orange- fleshed Sweet potato Value Chain Development into Building Sweeter Livelihoods” Mionjo’s project in Madagascar.

The Position: The positions will be hosted by AfricaRice in Madagascar and will report to the Food Technology Associate Scientist and Project Manager. The Senior Research Associate will supervise directly 5-training assistant in agricultural extension as their direct supervisor. This position will be based in Toliara.

 

Key Responsibilities:

  • Identify the need and support to strengthen the capacity and commitment of the 4 new Decentralize vine multipliers (DVMs) in Toliara II district.
  • Strengthen the DVMs and smallholder farmers capacity and knowledges on seed and roots production to apply the double S and Triple S technologies.
  • Collaborate closely with the Regional Directions of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock of 3 regions in selecting the candidate to participate at the training of trainer related to ‘’everything you want to know about OFSP.’’
  • Design training tools according to CIP knowledge portal and collaborate with the knowledge management specialist to translate into Malagasy.
  • Contribute to create online links to share knowledge about OFSP with the support of the communication specialist and the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock.
  • Coordinate with the finance officer, training assistants and monitoring officer to purchase 40tons and distribute them to the project beneficiaries.
  • Coordinate with FIFAMANOR and Regional Direction of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock to install the pre basic screenhouse in the south and provide support to its management.
  • Coordinate with the training assistants, Value Chain Specialist and conduct trainings to the agents of changes and project beneficiaries.
  • Assist the DVMs for the vines and root production and institutional markets linkage.
  • Organize DVMs and local smallholder famer’s group into cooperatives.
  • Work closely with the project manager and training assistants to transform the current DVMs into vines -roots business enterprises.
  • Collaborate with the monitoring assistant and project team to organize at least one market linkage workshop per year within project’s stakeholders, beneficiaries, and potential buyers.
  • Conduct analysis of the existing DVMs with focus in Toliara II district and replace the failing DVMs in collaboration with the Regional Direction of Agriculture and Livestock.
  • Monitor permanently seeds and fresh roots quality at the farms to avoid post -harvest losses.
  • Conduct awareness campaigns on nutrition and root conservation for food and seed at community level.
  • Conduct other activities as indicated by the project coordinator and stated in monthly workplans.
  • Collaborate with FAO, WFP, and the other Mionjo AGEX staff to strengthen the synergies.
  • Represent CIP at the workshops, coordination meetings and trainings related to the project.
  • Undertake other tasks agreed upon with the supervisor

Selection Criteria

  • Master’s degree in Agriculture, Plant’s biology, or related area.
  • At least 8 years of relevant experience required.
  • Understanding of agricultural value chains, including the processing sector.
  • Knowledge in seeds production and management.
  • Experience in developing training tools and conducting youth trainings.
  • Specialized knowledge on Sweetpotato preferred.
  • Experience in supervising at least 2 persons is required.
  • Knowledge on the agricultural calendar in the south and irrigation preferred.
  • Skills in andragogy, training smallholder farmers, especially using participatory approaches.
  • Experience in agricultural extension, working with smallholder farms.
  • Skills in Planning and Organization Capacity, Team spirit, Interpersonal communication skills.
  • Proven ability to work in difficult conditions and under pressure.
  • Advanced level of MS Office.
  • Excellent French and Malagasy speaking and writing skills; working knowledge of English

 

Why should you consider this opportunity?

  • CIP is a global and reputable international organization that has a strong, state-of-the-art R&D background.
  • CIP is dedicated to achieving food security, improved nutrition and well-being, and gender equality for poor people in root and tuber farming and food systems of the developing world.
  • CIP is a member of the CGIAR, a global research partnership for a food secure future dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing food and nutrition security, and improving natural resources.

 

What are we offering?

  • Excellent working environment.
  • Compensation package commensurate with experience.
  • Fixed term contract of 1 year with possibility of renewal subject on performance and availability of funds.
  • Work in an equal and diverse workplace.

 

How to apply?

Visit the following link: https://cipotato.org/open-vacancies/ and submit your cover letter and a full C.V in English with your references. Screening of applications will begin on March 11, 2024 and will continue until the post is filled. All applications will be acknowledged; however only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

 

This position will have contact with children or vulnerable adults.

Learn more about CIP by accessing our web site at http://www.cipotato.org.

CIP is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified women are particularly encouraged to apply.

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