Maize Breeder

Job Posting Organization:
CIMMYT (International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center) is a non-profit, international organization dedicated to addressing global agricultural challenges, particularly in the Global South. Established to enhance the productivity and resilience of maize and wheat production systems, CIMMYT focuses on improving the quantity, quality, and dependability of these crops through applied agricultural science. The organization operates in multiple countries, working closely with resource-poor farmers to improve their livelihoods and promote sustainable agrifood systems. CIMMYT emphasizes building strong partnerships and collaborations to achieve its mission, which is to foster innovation and research in crop improvement.

Job Overview:
The Maize Breeder position at CIMMYT is designed for an outstanding, self-motivated, and result-oriented professional who will drive breakthrough advancements in maize breeding. The role involves applying cutting-edge tools and technologies to enhance breeding systems, particularly in Asia, in alignment with CIMMYT's global breeding strategy. The successful candidate will be responsible for implementing breeding pipelines that leverage machine learning, genomic prediction, and other advanced methodologies to improve selection accuracy and breeding efficiency. This position requires a field-based approach, focusing on delivering climate-resilient and resource-efficient germplasm while integrating genomics and molecular breeding techniques into breeding pipelines. The Maize Breeder will also collaborate with various teams on gene discovery projects and ensure that molecular tools are applied to traits relevant to farmers, thereby contributing to the overall goals of sustainable intensification in agriculture.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Maize Breeder include supporting maize breeding systems in Asia, driving breeding improvements using genetic tools, and implementing breeding pipelines that utilize machine learning and genomic prediction. The role requires applying scientific rigor to enhance selection accuracy and reduce cycle times while ensuring that contemporary breeding methods are deployed effectively. The Maize Breeder will contribute to the design of global breeding systems, ensuring harmonization and cross-learning across different geographies. Key responsibilities also include delivering climate-resilient germplasm, integrating various breeding methodologies, collaborating on gene discovery projects, and driving evidence-based decision-making through advanced data insights. The position also involves mentoring early-career scientists, building institutional capacity, publishing research findings, and serving as a global ambassador for CIMMYT breeding initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a PhD in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Genomics, Data-Enabled Crop Improvement, or a closely related discipline. A minimum of 2 years of post-PhD experience in maize breeding or related crop improvement programs for tropical environments is required. The ideal candidate should have a demonstrated success in deploying molecular and genomic tools within operational breeding pipelines and a track record of using data-driven approaches to enhance breeding efficiency. Experience in collaborating with national agricultural research and extension systems (NARES) and across disciplines, including genomics and data science, is essential. Leadership experience in guiding technical innovation and mentoring scientists is also required, along with an advanced understanding of molecular breeding and quantitative genetics.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a PhD in a relevant field such as Plant Breeding, Genetics, or Genomics. Candidates should have a strong foundation in data-enabled crop improvement and related disciplines, with a focus on practical applications in breeding and genetic gain.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of post-PhD experience in maize breeding or related crop improvement programs, particularly in tropical environments. Candidates should have a proven track record of successfully deploying molecular and genomic tools in breeding pipelines and using data-driven approaches to improve breeding efficiency and genetic gain.

Languages:
Good reporting and communication skills in English are mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This position is initially fixed for three years, with a one-year probationary period. Continued employment is subject to performance and the availability of funds. CIMMYT offers an internationally competitive salary and benefits package, including housing allowance, car, comprehensive health and life insurance, assistance for children's education, paid vacation, annual home travel airfare, and contributions to a retirement plan. Candidates must apply online and include a CV with contact details of three work-related references and a cover letter. Incomplete applications will not be considered, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. CIMMYT is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and encourages women to apply.