Consultant Role for Comparative Assessment of Mycotoxins

Job Posting Organization:
HarvestPlus is an organization dedicated to improving nutrition and public health by developing and promoting biofortified food crops that are rich in vitamins and minerals. It operates as part of the CGIAR system and collaborates with the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI). HarvestPlus focuses on addressing micronutrient deficiencies and enhancing security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security through the introduction of climate-resilient, biofortified crop varieties. The organization aims to strengthen food systems and improve the resilience of vulnerable communities against climate change impacts. HarvestPlus has a global presence, working in various countries to promote sustainable agricultural practices and improve dietary nutrient density.

Job Overview:
The Consultant Role involves conducting a comparative assessment of exposure to mycotoxins derived from the consumption of vitamin A maize and white maize in communities. The consultant will be responsible for reviewing the varieties available in the country, identifying high-risk population groups, and overseeing the growing, harvesting, and storage of selected maize varieties. The study aims to explore the existing consumption patterns and assess the exposure to mycotoxins, providing valuable insights for maize breeders and policymakers. The consultant will also be involved in data collection, analysis, and reporting of findings to inform stakeholders about the health implications of maize consumption.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Review available maize varieties and their provitamin A carotenoid contents in collaboration with relevant partners.
• Identify high-risk population groups based on documented contamination with mycotoxins and maize consumption patterns.
• Conduct cross-sectional assessments of exposure to mycotoxins in communities consuming both vitamin A maize and white maize.
• Oversee the growing, harvesting, and storage of selected maize varieties, ensuring optimal conditions for data collection.
• Collect representative samples for physical, biochemical, and toxicological characterization of both white and vitamin A maize.
• Analyze exposure to aflatoxins and other mycotoxins using non-invasive methods.
• Prepare study tools, high-quality datasets, and technical reports summarizing findings and recommendations.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate should possess a strong background in agricultural sciences, nutrition, or public health. They should have experience in conducting research related to food safety, mycotoxin exposure, and agricultural practices. Familiarity with biofortification and crop improvement strategies is essential. The candidate should also demonstrate strong analytical skills, proficiency in data analysis software, and the ability to communicate findings effectively to diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree or higher in agricultural sciences, nutrition, public health, or a related field is required. Additional certifications or training in food safety, mycotoxin analysis, or biofortification will be considered an asset.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant experience in research or consultancy roles related to agriculture, nutrition, or public health. Experience working in Sub-Saharan Africa and familiarity with local agricultural practices and food systems will be highly advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Proficiency in local languages spoken in the study areas will be considered a plus, as it will facilitate communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The contract is expected to start in August 2025 and will last for 7 months, concluding in February 202

• The consultant will be required to submit a research protocol along with a work plan and budget. Ethical approval from the appropriate committee is necessary before commencing the study. The consultant will work closely with local partners and stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the study.