Integrated Soil Fertility Management Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is an international organization that promotes the peaceful use of nuclear energy and aims to prevent its use for military purposes. Established in 1957, the IAEA has a mission to enhance global peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security through the application of nuclear science and technology. The organization operates in over 170 countries and has a workforce of approximately 2,500 employees. The IAEA's Major Programme 2 focuses on Nuclear Techniques for Development and Environmental Protection, which includes various programs aimed at improving food security, health, and environmental sustainability.

Job Overview:
The Integrated Soil Fertility Management Specialist will play a crucial role in the Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications, specifically within the Soil and Water Management and Crop Nutrition Section. This position involves contributing to the development of improved soil fertility and health management practices, utilizing nuclear and isotopic techniques to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability. The specialist will work closely with Member States to implement effective soil and water management strategies, ensuring that agricultural practices are aligned with environmental protection goals. The role requires a blend of technical expertise, research coordination, and facilitation skills to support national and regional agricultural development objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Integrated Soil Fertility Management Specialist will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Contributing technical expertise to coordinated research projects focused on integrated soil fertility and health management, as well as the remediation of contaminants in agricultural land.
• Preparing guidance documents and working with isotopic and nuclear techniques to improve soil fertility and health management.
• Assisting in the planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of the IAEA's technical cooperation projects related to soil and water management.
• Organizing and conducting scientific and advisory meetings, participating in technical missions, and representing the IAEA at international conferences.
• Developing innovative initiatives and cross-cutting activities in collaboration with colleagues and various organizations, including UN bodies.
• Performing additional activities as directed by the Section Head to support the implementation of the Soil and Water Management & Crop Nutrition sub-programme.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's Degree in soil sciences or a related discipline, with a PhD being an asset. A minimum of seven years of directly relevant experience is required, demonstrating a proven track record in high-quality research related to soil science, agronomy, or related fields, particularly using nuclear and isotopic techniques. Candidates should have in-depth knowledge of the principles and practices of nuclear and isotopic techniques in soil fertility and health management, including the remediation of contaminants. Familiarity with FAO and IAEA mechanisms and procedures is highly desirable, along with the ability to formulate and guide research projects and mobilize funding.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in soil sciences or a closely related field. A PhD would be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in the field of soil science, agronomy, or related disciplines. This experience should include a strong focus on research utilizing nuclear and isotopic techniques, as well as a demonstrated ability to manage and implement technical cooperation projects effectively.

Languages:
Excellent oral and written command of English is mandatory. Knowledge of other official IAEA languages, including Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, and Spanish, is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
The IAEA offers an attractive remuneration package, including a tax-free annual net base salary starting at US $84,672, along with a variable post adjustment and various benefits such as dependency benefits, rental subsidy, education grant, and relocation expenses. Staff members are entitled to six weeks of annual leave and are subject to a medical report prior to appointment. The IAEA is committed to diversity and encourages applications from qualified women and candidates from developing countries. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct incompatible with its objectives, including discrimination and harassment.