Individual Consultant for Agroecology Plans

Job Posting Organization:
The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) is a global research organization that aims to provide sustainable solutions for ending hunger and poverty. Established in 1975, IFPRI operates in over 40 countries and employs a diverse team of researchers and experts dedicated to improving food systems and policies. The organization focuses on generating knowledge and tools to support sustainable, inclusive, and resilient landscapes, particularly through its CGIAR Multifunctional Landscapes (MFL) Science Program.

Job Overview:
The position of Individual Consultant for Agroecology Plans is designed to support the CGIAR Multifunctional Landscapes (MFL) Science Program, specifically focusing on national agroecology plans. The consultant will contribute to understanding the political economy of agroecological transitions and strengthen the evidence base for these plans. The role involves three main components: developing an edited volume on agroecological transitions, conducting comparative research on national agroecology plans, and participating in knowledge exchange workshops. The consultant will engage in desk-based research, analyze political economies, and produce policy-oriented outputs to aid policymakers in designing effective agroecology strategies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for several key activities:

• Supporting the development of an edited volume on the political economy of agroecological transitions by editing contributed chapters for clarity and coherence, and liaising with authors for timely revisions.
• Conducting comparative research on national agroecology plans, which includes selecting countries for analysis, performing desk-based research on the aims and implementation of these plans, and conducting semi-structured interviews with key informants.
• Analyzing the political economy of plan formulation and implementation, assessing the roles of various actors, governance arrangements, and the linkages between agroecology plans and other national policies.
• Producing policy-oriented outputs such as a comprehensive report and a guidebook for policymakers.
• Participating in workshops to share insights and contribute to discussions on agroecology policies and strategies.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate must possess expertise in agroecology, particularly in relation to national plans and the political aspects of the concept. A strong understanding of how agroecology intersects with broader food system transformations and issues like biodiversity and climate change is essential. The candidate should have a proven track record of high-quality peer-reviewed publications and experience in leading academic and policy workshops. A PhD in the social sciences is required for this position.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a PhD in the social sciences, which provides a strong foundation for understanding the complexities of agroecology and its implications for food systems. This educational background is crucial for conducting in-depth research and analysis related to national agroecology plans and their political economies.

Experience:
The position requires substantial experience in the field of agroecology, particularly in relation to national plans and policies. Candidates should have a demonstrated history of conducting research and publishing in peer-reviewed journals, as well as experience in leading workshops that bridge academic research and policy-making. This level of experience is necessary to effectively contribute to the objectives of the CGIAR Multifunctional Landscapes Science Program.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential for communication and documentation purposes. Additional language skills relevant to the countries being analyzed may be beneficial but are not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last up to 30 days from the date of the signed contract and will be conducted remotely. The assignment is anticipated to continue until December 31, 202

• Candidates are required to submit their CV, at least one writing sample, and a cover letter detailing their relevant experience. It is important to note that submissions will only be considered complete if all required documents are provided, and only selected candidates will be contacted.