Specific duties:

•  Support the development of high throughput phenotyping protocols for target dryland crops by designing new assays or recommending protocols based on regional network needs.
•  Support breeding efforts by assisting breeders to select for resistance to various biotic stresses of dryland crops.
•  Contribute to building dryland crop improvement networks and implementing ongoing DCP crops biotic stress screening activities in focus countries.
•  Support with supervision and reporting – the establishment of phenotyping facilities and protocols.
•  Support organization, presentation, and reporting of dryland crops biotic research results.
•  Support achievement of capacity development needs for dryland crop improvement network.
•  Ensure all network trials are uploaded in the Breeding Management System (BMS).
•  Support pathology data analysis using software like R, SAS, and Genstat.
•  Any other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Requirements

•  An earned Ph.D. plant pathology/phytopathology/entomology or any other closely related crop protection field from an internationally recognized university.
•  A publication record in high-impact crop protection Journals.
•  Expertise working with diverse biotic stresses and development of complex screening assays, including crop pests, pathogens, and weeds.
•  Experience with natural or artificial biotic stress infestation including establishment of dirty plots in compliance with host country phytosanitary regulatory guidelines.
•  Strong interpersonal and communication skills to manage complex collaborator relations including experienced breeders, social scientists, and crop protection experts.
•  Basic knowledge of international seed exchange and phytosanitary guidelines in East and Southern Africa region.
•  Ability to conduct staff training to staff working in resource-limited situations as part of establishing a cohesive network.
•  Working knowledge of data analysis software like R, SAS, and Genstat.
•  Track record of flexibility, adaptability, well organized and working under pressure with tight deadlines.
• Willing to travel widely (60%+) in East and Southern Africa, occasionally to West and Central Africa.
•  Able to excel in a fast-paced, dynamic team environment and possess skills to manage support staff.
•  Good reporting and communication skills in English (working language).
•  The selected candidate should exhibit the following competencies: Problem Solving and Decision Making, Negotiation and Conflict Resolution, Teamwork, and Communication.

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