Associate Researcher

International Rice Research Institute - Vietnam Office: Recruiting an Associate Researcher in Hanoi, Vietnam

The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), is a nonprofit independent research and training organization. IRRI is a member of the the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR). The Research Program on Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security – Southeast Asia (CCAFS-SEA) is hosted by IRRI and is implemented in Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar and Phillipines. The CGIAR Research Program on Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security (CCAFS) seeks to overcome the threats to agriculture and food security in a changing climate, exploring new ways of helping vulnerable rural communities adjust to global changes in climate.

Position: Associate Researcher

The position, under the supervision of the CCAFS Regional Program Leader and IRRI Representative, will conceptualize, plan and conduct climate change related research studies including activities such as preparation, improvement and/or development of necessary research tools, data collection, analysis and interpretation. Work closely with collaborating partner(s), exchange information and present research findings (seminars, conferences, publications). Organize and coordinate trainings, meetings and workshops for CCAFS stakeholders. The successful candidate will be expected to perform the summary tasks as follows:

Task 1: Plan and design multiple experiments/surveys and research studies (20%)

• Prepare research outline stating rationale, hypothesis, experimental lay-out, statistical design, timetable of activities and parameters/observations to be measured/recorded
• Explore collaboration with CCAFS partners and external funding opportunities 

Task 2: Manage the implementation of experiments/surveys, and other research studies related to (20%)

• Meet with supervisors/project leaders and/or collaborators to discuss the scope of specific research areas
• Verify outline of experiment/research study by discussing it with project partners (internal/external)
• Coordinate and monitor activities on a regular basis to ensure the efficiency of the research process/operation
• Ensure that research procedures follow the experimental protocol as described in the outline
• Develop standard operating procedures (SOP)    

Task 3: Analyze and verify the results of research studies (10%)

• Independently consolidate, verify and analyze collected data using appropriate advanced statistical tools
• Interpret the outcome of the data analyses/research findings based on the defined objective of the study and review of related literature
• Draw conclusions from the research studies
• Validate that database/dataset is current and initiate updates as necessary

Task 4: Prepare reports, scientific papers, articles, posters, database for publication/presentation (25%)

• Contribute to the content of scientific journals and/or web-based publications
• Present research studies at seminars and/or conferences (local/international)
• Maintain CCAFS SEA database of technical documents (reports, presentations, publications)

Task 5: Organize and coordinate trainings, meetings and workshops for CCAFS stakeholders (25%)

• Develop background documents, program and budget for trainings, meetings and workshop; 
• Prepare training materials and acts as a resource person in CCAFS trainings within and outside IRRI;
• Act as resource person for training courses and visitors

Qualifications Requirements::

• MA/MSc degree in agricultural economics, agricultural sciences, climate change,  development economics or other relevant field
• A minimum of 5 years relevant work experience, preferably in applied agricultural researches
• Demonstrated ability and skills to conduct surveys/researches, analyze and report research findings
• Demonstrated record of publications and research works
• Excellent Vietnamese and English, both written and oral skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills and an ability to work flexibly in multicultural, multidisciplinary teams
• Willingness to travel nationally and regionally
• Good computer skills including use of standard office applications
• Excellent organisational skills and time management skills.
• Demonstrates sound judgement and able to identify risks.
• Good knowledge and relationship with government agencies at central and local levels of agriculture system is an advantage

 * Terms of appointment:

• This is a Nationally Professional Fixed Term position, based in Hanoi, open to Vietnamese Nationality, with a competitive salary and benefits package.
• The contract is for a period of 3 (Three) years, with high possibility of renewal, subject to 3 (three) months probation period, assessment of performance and availability of resources.
• The selected applicant will assume the position expected in April/May 2017

How to apply

Applications for the position must be in English and include:

• A cover letter illustrating your suitability for the position against the listed requirements
• A detailed curriculum vitae with publication records.
• The names and addresses of three referees, including telephone, and email address.

All correspondences should be addressed via Email: [email protected], with subject line “CCAFS Associate Researcher”, no later than 5p.m, 31 MARCH 2017.

Only short-listed applicants meeting the requirements stated above will be contacted.