Consultant - Plant Breeding and Genetics

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 application 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 encompasses various programs aimed at improving food security, human health, and environmental management through nuclear techniques.

Job Overview:
The consultancy position is aimed at providing technical expertise and support to the Plant Breeding and Genetics (PBG) subprogramme within the IAEA. The consultant will focus on delivering outputs related to mutation breeding and biotechnologies, as well as innovations in plant health that contribute to climate-resilient crop improvement. The role involves designing and implementing projects, including Coordinated Research Projects (CRPs), in accordance with results-based management principles. The consultant will also play a significant role in planning an International Symposium on Mutation Breeding scheduled for 2028, which includes stakeholder engagement, partnership development, and the creation of communication materials. The consultant's contributions will extend to establishing public-private partnerships and supporting the broader priorities of the section, including technical publications and contributions to the Atoms4Food initiative.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for identifying and developing strategic partnerships in both public and private sectors, preparing concept notes and technical proposals focused on plant breeding and health. They will provide technical expertise on mutation breeding and biotechnologies, ensuring that projects aimed at improving climate change adaptation adhere to results-based management principles. The consultant will also engage in visibility and outreach activities for the sub-programme, providing technical inputs for reports, project documents, and scientific publications. Additionally, the consultant will organize scientific meetings, liaising with partners and stakeholders, and ensuring effective communication and engagement throughout the process.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in biological or agricultural sciences, with a specialization in plant breeding, crop improvement, crop science, plant health, or a related field. A minimum of five years of experience in project management, particularly within international organizations or the UN system, is required. Proven experience in climate-resilient agriculture, especially in plant breeding and genetics, is essential. The candidate should also have experience in resource mobilization, including preparing funding proposals and technical reports for donor agencies. The ability to develop and manage strategic partnerships and a track record of organizing technical events are also crucial qualifications for this role.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in biological or agricultural sciences is mandatory for this position. Specialization in areas such as plant breeding, crop improvement, or plant health is highly desirable, as it aligns with the core functions of the consultancy.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience, particularly in project management within international organizations or the UN system. Candidates should have a strong background in climate-resilient agriculture, mutation breeding, and biotechnologies, as well as experience in resource mobilization and strategic partnership development.

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

Additional Notes:
The consultancy offers a daily fee of up to a maximum of €250, depending on the candidate's qualifications and experience. If travel is required for the assignment, a daily subsistence allowance (DSA) and travel costs will be covered. Health coverage and pension fund responsibilities lie with the consultant.