Consultant – Assistant Plant Breeder (The International Potato Center)

About CIP

The International Potato Center (CIP) was founded in 1971 is part of the CGIAR global research partnership committed to transforming food, land, and water systems in a climate crisis. CIP’s mission is to develop and share science-based innovations in potato, sweetpotato, and other root and tuber crops. It delivers innovative science-based solutions to enhance access to affordable nutritious food, foster inclusive sustainable business and employment growth, and drive the climate resilience of root and tuber agri-food systems. Headquartered in Lima, Peru, CIP partners with organizations in over 20 countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America to strengthen agri-food systems and provide economic, social, and nutritional benefits, especially for women and youth. We integrate social and biophysical sciences to address complex challenges in food and agriculture.

CIP is a CGIAR research center, a global research partnership for a food-secure future. CGIAR science is dedicated to transforming food, land and water systems in a climate crisis. Its research is carried out by 13 CGIAR Centers/Alliances in close collaboration with hundreds of partners, including national and regional research institutes, civil society organizations, academia, development organizations and the private sector.

Job Purpose

The purpose of this position, based in Đa Lat, Lam Dong is to support the potato breeding program in Vietnam by managing research operations, overseeing breeding trials, crossing nursery and maintaining the health and genetic integrity of breeding materials. The Consultant will provide technical and professional expertise to ensure high-quality research outcomes, facilitate collaboration among stakeholders, and contribute to capacity-building efforts through workshops and professional guidance. This role aims to enhance project efficiency and effectiveness while ensuring compliance with relevant local and international policies and standards.

Roles and Responsibilities

Oversee research operations across multiple environments to ensure proper execution of experiments and maintain outstanding agronomic standards.
Manage potato crossing nursery, seed production and breeding trials across testing locations in Vietnam.
Data recording, analysis and compiling the information’s for project reports and enhanced internal discussions.
Assist with administrative and logistical tasks to support germplasm exchange and other activities of the project.
Provide professional guidance to technicians, fostering their development and growth within the organization.
Perform initial data analyses to ensure completeness and accuracy of results.
Coordinate, communication and oversee the breeding operations with partners and other team members
Organize and facilitate workshops and knowledge-sharing events at the national and regional levels.
Monitor and preserve the health and maintain genetic purity and identity of breeding materials.
Monitor adherence to consultancy contracts, CIP & IRRI policies and procedures, and relevant external rules and regulations.
Carry out any additional project-related responsibilities assigned by the supervisor

Qualifications

A master’s degree in agriculture preferably Genetics and Plant Breeding, Seed Science, Plant Pathology or Agronomy
At least two years of experience conducting research trials in field and controlled conditions.
Strong experience of using communication technologies as extension field work supporting tools.

Skills Required

Mandatory

Background in agriculture preferably Genetics and Plant Breeding, Seed Science, Plant Pathology or Agronomy
Proficiency in written and verbal communication skills in English and Vietnamese

Preferred

Proficiency in basic computer skills
Strong organizational and time management abilities.
Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively within a team.
Willingness to travel across trial locations in Vietnam.

How to apply

Interested applicants are requested to submit their CV along with a cover letter via email to Sunil.Chaudhari@cgiar.org (Dr. Sunil Chaudhari) and d.t.le@irri.org (Ms. Dao Le).

Please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

This position will remain open until a suitable candidate has been hired.

Tags: The International Potato Center (CIP)