Section Head, Soil and Water Management and Crop Nutrition

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 promotion of nuclear science and technology for sustainable development. The organization operates in over 170 countries and has a workforce of approximately 2,500 employees. The IAEA's work encompasses various areas, including nuclear safety, security, and safeguards, as well as the application of nuclear techniques in fields such as health, agriculture, and environmental protection.

Job Overview:
The Section Head for Soil and Water Management and Crop Nutrition will play a pivotal role in leading a multidisciplinary team within the Joint FAO/IAEA Centre of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture. This position is crucial for ensuring that the activities of the Soil and Water Management and Crop Nutrition Section contribute effectively to the subprogramme aimed at developing improved management techniques for soil, water, and crop nutrients. The Section Head will be responsible for overseeing the implementation of nuclear and related techniques to enhance sustainable agricultural production systems, particularly in the context of climate change and environmental challenges. The role requires a combination of technical leadership, team management, and strategic planning to achieve the objectives of the subprogramme, which includes capacity building, technical support, and policy advice for Member States.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Section Head will manage the Soil and Water Management and Crop Nutrition Section, providing leadership and guidance to staff while establishing and monitoring performance standards. Responsibilities include ensuring coordination and transparency in all activities, contributing to the strategic direction of the Joint FAO/IAEA Programme, and leading the development and validation of nuclear techniques for improved agricultural practices. The Section Head will also ensure the visibility and impact of the subprogramme's activities, generate scientific input for policy development, and evaluate technical cooperation projects. Additionally, the role involves fostering collaboration with internal and external stakeholders and mobilizing resources for the subprogramme.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's Degree or an advanced university degree in Soil Science, Agronomy, or related disciplines, with a proven background in the application of nuclear techniques in soil and agricultural water management. A PhD in a relevant field is considered a strong asset. Furthermore, candidates should have a minimum of ten years of experience in research and development related to soil-plant-water interactions, with a focus on sustainable agricultural production systems. Experience in leading teams, managing resources, and developing policies for soil and water management is essential, along with a strong understanding of isotopic techniques for environmental protection and remediation.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's Degree or higher in Soil Science, Agronomy, or a closely related field. Candidates with a PhD will have a competitive advantage. The educational qualifications should be complemented by a solid understanding of nuclear techniques and their application in agricultural contexts, particularly in relation to soil and water management.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least ten years of relevant experience in research and development, specifically focusing on soil-plant-water interactions and sustainable agricultural practices. This experience should include leadership roles in managing teams and resources, as well as involvement in high-quality research and development activities that utilize nuclear techniques. Familiarity with policy development and the ability to navigate international cooperation in agricultural contexts are also important.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent oral and written communication skills. Knowledge of other official IAEA languages, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, and Spanish, is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
The IAEA offers a competitive remuneration package, including a tax-free annual net base salary starting at US $101,540, along with a variable post adjustment and various benefits such as annual leave, health insurance, and pension plans. The organization is committed to diversity and encourages applications from qualified women and candidates from developing countries. The appointment is subject to a satisfactory medical report, and staff members may be assigned to any location as per the IAEA's rotation policy.