Plant Breeder

Job Summary

Manage all components of a successful plant breeding program, including management of existing germplasm, acquisition of new germplasm, development of elite breeding material and hybrids targeted for marginal environments.

Job Responsibilities
  • Acquisition, evaluation and multiplication of plant germplasm of stress-tolerant crops/species;
  • Enhance the use of germplasm to improve productivity through preliminary evaluation and pre-breeding;
  • Develop and improve plant varieties for targeted abiotic stresses/marginal environments utilizing a variety of breeding techniques, including molecular, genetic and traditional methods;
  • Assess genetic diversity and GxE interactions effects from germplasm evaluation trials to select the best performing and most stable genotypes;
  • Keep up-to-date on developments in breeding through the scientific literature, and publish research findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals with high Journal Impact Factors;
  • Support the lab-based molecular team in breeding projects for genetic improvement of targeted crops;
  • Develop projects related to area of expertise and in line with ICBA mandate, and procure internal and external funding;
  • Design and conduct experiments, statistical analysis of data and assist other scientists and network partners as relevant to area of expertise;
  • Assist in the formation of networks with regional, national and international institutions and take part in those already in place, and conduct collaborative or cooperative research with network partners;
  • Develop and take part in workshops, conferences and training programs for scientists and regional specialists in area of expertise;
  • Prepare scientific reports and publications in area of expertise;
  • Supervise associate scientists, technicians and field workers.
Qualifications and Experience

Essential

  • PhD or its equivalent in plant breeding and genetic resources;
  • At least 7 years’ experience in plant breeding research preferably with international research experience;
  • Strong publications record;
  • Fluency in written and spoken English;
  • Experience working as a member of a multidisciplinary team;
  • International work experience;
  • Ability to initiate, conduct and publish research in a scientific manner, and to obtain external grant funding;
  • Well-developed oral and written communication skills;
  • Working knowledge of computers, experimental design and statistical analysis of data.

Desirable:

  • Plant patents and management of germplasm;
  • Experience in introduction and domestication of new and non-conventional crops;
  • Detailed understanding of the issues associated with the ownership of plant genetic resources and intellectual property rights/PVP;
  • Knowledge of Arabic.

Applicants are kindly requested to send an updated cover letter and C.V. combined in one PDF file along with two names as references to:
Human Resources
ICBA
P.O. Box 14660
Dubai, UAE
Fax: +9714 3361149
Email: hr@biosaline.org.ae

Post Date
21 June 2017
Status
Closed
Vacancy Type
Full-time
Closing Date
22 February 2018
Location
International Center for Biosaline Agriculture, Dubai, UAE
Report To
Section Head – Crop Diversification and Genetic Improvement
Job Number
ICBADRI-PB-2016-002
Gross Salary Range
AED (33,083-38,633) monthly + Medical and Life Insurance
Grade
(15-16)