Scientist, Quantitative Genetics Specialist at International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT)

Job Description

The International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center, known by its Spanish acronym, CIMMYT®, is a not-for-profit research and training organization with partners in over countries.

Summary

The Quantitative Genetics Specialist will support CGIAR-NARES breeding teams to achieve higher rates of genetic gain and extract maximum value from new and proven technologies, tools, and services. The successful candidate will have a strong background and experience in quantitative genetics and biometrics with a deep understanding of how to manipulate plant breeding schemes by using the latest technologies. The successful candidate will work within the ABI Quantitative Genetics team, across CGIAR centers – in a wide range of regions and crops – to optimize breeding schemes according to elements of the breeder’s equation to achieve the highest possible rate of genetic gain per dollar invested and per unit of time using simulation technologies, optimization and applied quantitative genetics experience, among other means. By providing one-on-one consultation, workshops and online communication via the platform’s purpose built ‘toolbox,’ the successful candidate will contribute to raising standards of breeding methods and operations at CGIAR and NARES breeding programs in line with targets set by ABI. The position will be based at CIMMYT-Nairobi Campus in Kenya, involve significant international travel, and will report to the ABI Breeding Optimization Lead.

Specific duties:

Lead CGIAR-NARES breeding teams to create awareness and support the adoption of new tools and approaches for optimizing breeding pipelines. Work with other quantitative genetics specialists to design and evaluate new and current breeding schemes through simulation, retrospective analysis, and pilot testing. Develop strategy in collaboration with CGIAR-NARES breeding teams and other stakeholders and support the development of plans to optimize the use of new breeding tools and methodologies. Support CGIAR-NARES breeding teams to ensure that target product profiles drive breeding activities and that breeding efforts are aligned to these breeding targets. Support the CGIAR-NARES breeding teams to set up disciplined processes to select parental germplasm in a targeted manner, as well as identify and implement ways to overcome resource, logistical, and biological constraints to shorten the breeding cycle time and increase the accuracy of data prior to selection of parents. Contribute to the development of a training strategy and content to mentor and consult with CGIAR-NARES breeding teams. Lead and contribute to both virtual and hands-on training and mentorship activities targeted at CGIAR-NARES breeding teams in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Providing support to internal and external reviews and evaluations. Contributing to publications derived from the breeding optimization project.

Requirements

PhD in plant breeding, quantitative genetics, biometrics, or related fields. Minimum of 4 years of relevant experience. Experience in private industry and/or an advanced modern breeding program is a plus. In-depth understanding of practical breeding applications and logistical constraints that will be relevant to breeding programs targeting the developing world (i.e., CGIAR centers, national systems, and private sector organizations). Expertise in statistical analysis software (R, mixed modeling, perhaps machine learning, etc.) and a creative and innovative mindset. A good understanding of quantitative genetics and underlying mathematical theory. Good reporting and communication skills in English. The selected candidate must exhibit the following competencies: Problem-Solving, Client Orientation, Good Communication, Multicultural Awareness and Collaboration.