Ref.: Research Assistant in CIP-China

The International Potato Center (CIP) is seeking a dynamic and resourceful research professional to support technical implementation of field experiments in China financed by the following CGIAR Research Programs (CRP): Roots, Tubers and Bananas (RTB), Water Land and Ecosystems (WLE), and Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security (CCAFS).

The Center: CIP is a not-for-profit international agricultural research-for-development organization with a focus on potato, sweetpotato, and Andean roots and tubers. Its vision is of roots and tubers improving the lives of the poor. CIP is dedicated to achieving food security, improved well-being, and gender equity for poor people in root and tuber farming and food systems of the developing world. CIP works with partners to contribute high quality science, technology, and capacity strengthening for sustainable science-based solutions. CIP is headquartered in Lima, Peru, with staff and activities in over 30 locations across Asia, Africa, and Latin America. CIP is a member of the CGIAR Consortium. CGIAR is a global agriculture research partnership for a food secure future. Its science is carried out by the 15 research centers who are members of the CGIAR Consortium in collaboration with hundreds of partner organizations.

The Position: This position will be based in Beijing, China – under the supervision of the Research Manager - and will report to Production System and the Environment Sub-Program in Lima, Peru. This position will support the implementation of different trials to contribute to the CRPs listed above.

Duties and Accountabilities:

-         Carry out irrigation experiments simulating water scarcity (partial root-zone drying and deficit irrigation trials)

-         Analyze plant response to drought through ecophysiological assessments

-         Implement trials with the aim to parameterize growth models in roots and tubers

-         Record, analyze, and summarize the experimental data

Selection Criteria:

·          Master or Ph.D degree in Agricultural Technology Management emphasizes the application and integration of agricultural/biological sciences

·          At least two years of experience participating in the implementation of field irrigation trials and agronomic/biological assessments, micro-meteorological  management

·          Ability to work in a multidisciplinary environment, prior experience participating in multidisciplinary projects is a plus

·          Project management skillsIntermediate to advance level written and spoken English is relevant.

·          Able to travel frequently

Conditions: This position is local. CIP prides itself on its collegial and supportive working environment, which allows space for personal and professional growth. Salary and benefits will follow the CIP policies and refer to related Chinese regulations.

Application: Applicants should apply by email, sending a letter of interest, a full C.V., and the names and contact information of two to three references knowledgeable about the candidate’s professional qualifications and work experience to: cip-cccaprecruit@cgiar.org in both English and Chinese. The subject line of the email message should be Research Assistant_your name_your academic degree. Screening of applications will begin on March 8, 2013 and short-listed candidates will be informed for an interview thereafter.