Consultant in Soil and Water Management

Job Posting Organization:
The Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications implements the IAEA's Major Programme 2, focusing on 'Nuclear Techniques for Development and Environmental Protection'. Established to enhance the capacity of Member States in addressing basic human needs and managing environmental challenges, the organization operates through various programs related to food and agriculture, human health, water resources, and environmental protection. The Joint FAO/IAEA Centre of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture plays a crucial role in assisting member states in utilizing nuclear techniques to improve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and promote sustainable agriculture. The organization has laboratories located in Seibersdorf, Monaco, and Vienna, and aims to support sustainable development through applied research and technology transfer.

Job Overview:
The consultancy position at the Soil Water Management and Crop Nutrition Laboratory (SWMCNL) is centered on conducting research and development (R&D) activities over a five-year period. The primary focus is to develop innovative knowledge and technologies that address significant challenges such as soil salinization, declining soil fertility, and nutrient dynamics using nuclear and related techniques. The consultant will be responsible for identifying key research topics, publishing findings in scientific journals, providing technical support for protocol publication, and facilitating technical meetings. This role requires a proactive approach to research and collaboration with various stakeholders to enhance agricultural practices and sustainability.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will carry out R&D activities both in the field and laboratory settings, focusing on soil salinization, soil sodification, nutrient dynamics, and soil fertility. Responsibilities include identifying and addressing key research topics within the framework of the Coordinated Research Project (CRP), publishing results in scientific journals, and presenting findings at scientific conferences. The consultant will also provide technical support for the publication of protocols, guidelines, and standard operating procedures (SOPs). Additionally, the role involves facilitating and contributing to technical meetings and discussions with research partners, as well as traveling to other Member States to participate in Research Coordination meetings, workshops, and field studies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Doctorate Degree) in Soil Science, Agronomy, or a related field. A minimum of two years of relevant post-doctoral experience is required, particularly in areas such as soil salinity, biochemical processes, nutrient dynamics, and soil fertility. Experience in statistical analysis, laboratory and field trial management, and a proven record of publication in peer-reviewed international journals are essential. Strong presentation skills at scientific meetings and proficiency in the Microsoft Office suite are also required. Familiarity with climate change issues and climate-smart agricultural practices is considered an asset, along with good analytical skills using isotopic and nuclear-related techniques.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree, specifically a Doctorate Degree, in Soil Science, Agronomy, or a closely related field. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of soil management and agricultural practices, as well as for conducting high-level research in the specified thematic areas.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of two years of relevant post-doctoral experience. This experience should encompass working on soil salinity, biochemical processes, nutrient dynamics, and soil fertility. Additionally, candidates should have experience in statistical analysis and managing laboratory and field trials, which are critical for the successful execution of research projects in this role.

Languages:
Proficiency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of other official IAEA languages such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate and collaborate in an international environment.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy offers a daily fee of up to a maximum of €237, depending on qualifications and experience. If duty travel is required, a daily subsistence allowance (DSA) and travel costs will be covered. It is important to note that health coverage and pension fund responsibilities lie with the incumbent. The position does not specify a contract duration or seniority level, but it is implied that the consultancy is full-time and focused on international collaboration.