Senior Research Fellow (Local Recruitment)

Senior Research Fellow (Local Recruitment) Full-time Drylands Cultivation Program (DCP) S26328 Thiès Region of Thiès , Senegal Overview Application Description CIMMYT is a leading international, non-profit organization committed to solving tomorrow’s problems today. Its mission is to improve the quantity, quality and reliability of production systems and basic cereals such as maize, wheat, triticale, sorghum, millet and associated crops, through applied agricultural science, especially in the Global South, and by establishing strong partnerships. This approach contributes to improving the living conditions and resilience of millions of resource-constrained farmers, while working towards a more productive, inclusive and resilient agri-food system that respects global boundaries.

Education / Qualifications

For more information, visit cimmyt.org. The purpose of this position is to support the development and implementation of modern breeding strategies to accelerate genetic progress and maximize the impact of crop improvement programs. The incumbent will be responsible for strengthening hybrid breeding programs for sorghum and pearl millet through the application of advanced breeding methods, including quantitative genetics, genomic-assisted selection, data-driven decision making, and regional trial networks. This role will also include providing technical support for peanut breeding activities and contributing to the integration of innovative crop-wide breeding approaches, including the design and implementation of effective breeding channels, multi-environment testing networks, product development systems and varietal deployment strategies.

Responsibilities

He/She will carry out activities with specific tasks that include, but are not limited to:

• 1. Management of breeding programs and genetic improvement
• Co-lead selection activities for one or two sorghum and pearl millet streams under the CIMMYT component of the CIMMYT-NARS Crop Improvement Network.
• Implement collaborative breeding strategies to develop elite breeding materials targeting the priority market segments of hybrid sorghum and pearl millet.

Other information

• Develop appropriate genetic resources to support and strengthen breeding programs in collaboration with NARS and other partners.
• Co-lead the implementation of marker-assisted selection, genomic selection and other modern breeding approaches to accelerate genetic gain and improve breeding effectiveness.
• Support the design and implementation of research activities on hybrid seed systems in the region. Fostering innovation, data-driven approaches and technology integration
• Develop and implement data-driven selection frameworks in collaboration with scientists specializing in selection informatics, quantitative geneticists and cross-functional teams to improve population development and selection decisions.
• Develop and promote standard operating procedures (SOPs), protocols, and best practices for the application of advanced selection tools and technologies.
• Facilitate the integration of innovative breeding approaches for all crops, where appropriate, in order to maximize the impact of breeding.
• 3. Research networks, partnerships and resource mobilization
• Develop and strengthen partnerships with national public selection programmes, global selection programmes, research institutions and other stakeholders to promote innovation and technology adoption.
• Enable and support regional crop improvement networks to collaboratively plan, coordinate and implement breeding activities.
• Contribute to the development of research proposals, resource mobilization and fundraising initiatives to support the objectives of the selection program.
• 4. Capacity building, knowledge sharing and program support
• Organize, supervise and supervise research support staff involved in reproductive activities.
• Produce scientific publications, technical reports, presentations and other knowledge products to communicate research results.
• Provide technical support for breeding activities and contribute to the overall objectives of the program.
• Perform any other relevant tasks necessary for the success of the breeding program. Requirements The successful candidate must: Master of Science (MSc) degree in plant improvement, genetics or related fields.

Experience

Practical experience in field research, including testing design, implementation, data collection and analysis. Good knowledge and experience in hybrid selection of sorghum and/or pearl millet will be an asset.

Required skills

Proven leadership potential, excellent communication skills and willingness to adopt modern farming methods and technologies. Demonstrated interest and commitment in conducting research benefiting smallholder farmers in West and Central Africa. Experience or knowledge of quantitative genetics, population genetics and genomics tools applied to improve the effectiveness of breeding programs. Strong statistical skills and knowledge of computer applications and software for data collection, management and analysis. Ability to work effectively in a matrix environment and collaborate within multicultural and diverse partnerships involving a wide range of stakeholders, with a strong interest in interdisciplinary teamwork. Proficiency in English and French, with excellent written and oral communication and presentation skills. Benefits Working with us means benefiting from competitive international compensation, multicultural working environments and a significant commitment to food security and agricultural research across Africa. This position is filled by a local candidate. Applicants must have the right to work in the country of assignment at the time of application. The CIMMYT does not support visa or work permit procedures for locally filled positions. Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be

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