Research Associate

Job Posting Organization:
CIMMYT is a cutting-edge, non-profit, international organization dedicated to solving tomorrow’s problems today. Established to improve the quantity, quality, and dependability of production systems and basic cereals such as maize, wheat, triticale, sorghum, millets, and associated crops, CIMMYT focuses on applied agricultural science, particularly in the Global South. The organization builds strong partnerships to enhance the livelihood trajectories and resilience of millions of resource-poor farmers, while working towards a more productive, inclusive, and resilient agrifood system within planetary boundaries. As a core CGIAR Research Center, CIMMYT is part of a global research partnership aimed at achieving a food-secure future, dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing nutrition" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food and nutrition security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and improving natural resources. For more information, visit https://www.cimmyt.org/es/

Job Overview:
The Research Associate position at CIMMYT is pivotal in leading the research and analysis agenda on Corporate Sustainability, Responsible Sourcing, and Regenerative Agriculture. This role is designed to position CIMMYT as the leading technical partner for the global agri-food industry. The incumbent will act as a critical bridge between research and implementation, focusing on designing, piloting, and scaling strategies and tools that promote regenerative agriculture, decarbonization, and responsible sourcing. The role involves aligning international reporting frameworks with operational supply models and generating the scientific evidence and scalability mechanisms necessary for CIMMYT to assist companies in achieving their corporate sustainability goals across various geographic regions. The Research Associate will be expected to engage with multiple stakeholders and contribute to the development of innovative solutions that address sustainability challenges in the agri-food sector.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Research Associate include:

• Analyzing international frameworks (such as GRI, SAI Platform, ISSB/CDSB) and national regulatory frameworks to consolidate a system of key performance indicators (KPIs) that integrate metrics on soil health, water efficiency, carbon intensity, productivity, market access, community development, and gender equity.
• Collaborating in the design and implementation of Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) protocols, ensuring the development of replicable methodologies and resources that enable the model to be scaled up to various partners in the agro-industrial sector.
• Designing and proposing innovative business models and monetization schemes linked to regenerative agriculture, aimed at diversifying funding sources and strengthening CIMMYT INC.’s strategy.
• Developing mechanisms to implement strategies that improve engagement within Mexico’s responsible supply ecosystem, incorporating incentives related to traceability, natural capital assessment, carbon markets, digital traceability, data wallets, and agricultural contracts linked to sustainability performance.
• Proposing and developing impact assessment frameworks based on standardized metrics to accurately quantify the social and environmental returns of CIMMYT’s interventions with the private sector.
• Systematizing lessons learned and producing high-quality technical documents that document the impacts of responsible sourcing and regenerative agriculture initiatives.
• Developing high-quality technical briefs and investment proposals for fundraising and identifying joint projects with the private sector in the areas of responsible sourcing and regenerative agriculture.
• Identifying and managing collaboration opportunities with key stakeholders in the decarbonization, water neutrality, and biodiversity agendas to expand the institution’s portfolio of strategic projects.
• Providing specialized technical assistance and training programs for supplier companies to mitigate sustainability risks and close operational gaps in the supply chain. 1
• Leading the preparation of performance reports and technical documents for executive committees and decision-makers in the agri-food sector.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Research Associate position include:

• A Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics, Sustainability, Agribusiness, Environmental Sciences, or related fields. A Ph.D. in business administration is desirable.
• At least 4 years of previous experience in strategic consulting, value chain analysis, or sustainability project management with multinational companies.
• Proficiency in statistical/econometric software (such as R or Stata) and in-depth knowledge of ESG reporting standards.
• Technical fluency in both English and Spanish is essential for effective communication and collaboration.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics, Sustainability, Agribusiness, Environmental Sciences, or related fields. A Ph.D. in business administration is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's qualifications for this role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience, specifically in strategic consulting, value chain analysis, or sustainability project management with multinational companies. This experience is crucial for understanding the complexities of sustainability challenges in the agri-food sector and for effectively contributing to CIMMYT's objectives.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Spanish is mandatory for this position, as the role involves collaboration with diverse stakeholders and requires the ability to communicate complex concepts effectively in both languages. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not required.

Additional Notes:
CIMMYT offers an attractive remuneration package and support for continuous professional development. In addition to the provisions of the Mexican Labor Law, the benefits package includes a year-end bonus (40 days), vacation premium (56%), life and medical insurance, supermarket coupons, a savings fund, and social Mexican benefits (IMSS, SAR / Infonavit). Candidates must apply through the provided link, and only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Foreign national candidates must have legal documents to work in Mexico. This position will remain open until filled, and CIMMYT is committed to fostering a multicultural work environment that values gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity.