Plant Breeder/Geneticist

Job Posting Organization:
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is an international organization that seeks to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy and to inhibit its use for any military purpose, including nuclear weapons. 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. 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, human health, and environmental protection through nuclear science.

Job Overview:
The Plant Breeder/Geneticist position is integral to the Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications at the IAEA, which implements Major Programme

• This role involves contributing to a results-oriented program that addresses the priorities of Member States in applying nuclear and efficiency-enhancing technologies in plant breeding. The successful candidate will work closely with the Section Head and will be responsible for coordinating research, training, and the dissemination of scientific knowledge. The position requires a blend of technical expertise, project management, and collaboration with various stakeholders to achieve agricultural development goals. The Plant Breeder/Geneticist will also engage in planning and conducting technical meetings and field missions, ensuring that the IAEA's objectives in food security and sustainable agriculture are met.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the Plant Breeder/Geneticist include formulating and implementing coordinated research projects related to nuclear and advanced technologies in plant breeding. This involves evaluating research contracts, monitoring project progress, organizing meetings, and publishing results. The role also requires supporting the planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of IAEA technical cooperation projects in crop improvement. The candidate will prepare guidance documents on nuclear technologies applied to plant breeding, contribute expertise to other divisions, and participate in training and capacity-building activities. Additionally, the Plant Breeder/Geneticist will develop novel initiatives, collaborate with national and international stakeholders, and interact with the Plant Breeding and Genetics Laboratory on various research and training activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's Degree or an advanced university degree in plant breeding, genetics, or a related discipline. A Doctorate degree is considered an asset. The position requires a minimum of seven years of recent scientific experience in plant breeding and genetics, with practical field experience in plant breeding for abiotic or biotic tolerance/resistance. Familiarity with nuclear and biotechnology methods for genetic alteration in plants is essential, along with experience in crop improvement project management, particularly in developing countries. A strong record of published research in peer-reviewed journals is also required, along with excellent oral and written command of English. Knowledge of other official IAEA languages such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, and Spanish is an asset.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's Degree or an advanced university degree in plant breeding, genetics, or a closely related field. A Doctorate degree is advantageous and may enhance the candidate's profile. The educational qualifications should reflect a strong foundation in the principles of plant science, biotechnology, and agricultural development, which are critical for the role.

Experience:
The position demands a minimum of seven years of relevant scientific experience in the fields of plant breeding and genetics. Candidates should have practical field experience in applying induced mutations for crop improvement, which is considered a strong asset. Experience in managing crop improvement projects, particularly in developing countries, is highly desirable. Additionally, candidates should have a background in international project management and coordination, as well as experience in research and development project management and fundraising.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirement for this position is excellent oral and written command of English. Knowledge of other official IAEA languages, including Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, and Spanish, is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Additional Notes:
The IAEA offers an attractive remuneration package that includes a tax-free annual net base salary starting at US $86,027, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. Additional benefits include a variable post adjustment, dependency benefits, rental subsidy, education grant, relocation and repatriation expenses, and six weeks of annual leave. The IAEA is committed to gender equality 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. The maximum tour of service for posts in the Professional and higher categories is normally seven years.