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Scientist, Breeding Informatics Specialist

 

Reference No: IRS-2009-05DM

Location: Los Baños, Philippines

Job Purpose

The Breeding Informatics Specialist will lead the development and deployment of germplasm information management systems focusing on the capture, storage, analysis, interpretation, and visualization of field evaluation and quantitative genetic and molecular breeding information about germplasm for internal and external crop improvement programs. This individual will also contribute expertise to germplasm information management activities across the Institute.

 Responsibilities

  1.    Conduct a program of research and development of tools and methodology for field evaluation, quantitative genetic and molecular breeding germplasm information management on large-scale conventional and molecular breeding programs for IRRI priority traits. This will cover the following activities:
a.    Coordinate the documentation of current breeding strategies being deployed by different breeding projects at IRRI
b.    Work with breeders to collect the best available information on genetic systems operating in current breeding populations for a range of important traits, and documenting these systems including known genes, QTLs, and their known or hypothesized interactions
c.    Work with CRIL scientists to parameterize simulation models for these breeding systems and genetic models and to simulate different genetic and breeding scenarios
d.    Improve the simulation software being used for genetic simulation at CRIL so that it is easier to use and is more flexible; and train users at IRRI using this simulation software to answer specific questions about breeding projects
e.    Integrate simulation models into molecular selection tools being developed for the International Crop Information System (ICIS; www.icis.cgiar.org) to enable breeders to check the likelihood of obtaining target genotypes with different parental choices

2.    Coordinate the germplasm information system (ICIS) component – software development, data curation, training and systems deployment - for IRRI internal and external (collaborative) projects, including budgeting, reporting, and supervision of relevant CRIL and Institute staff.
3.    Serve as the primary IRRI liaison in international research and development initiatives complementary to the goals of the IRRI germplasm information management research and development.          

Requirements

Minimum

  • PhD in quantitative genetics, crop breeding, or equivalent
  • Minimum 3 years of postdoctoral experience in team research environment with
        a) expertise in plant (molecular) breeding and quantitative genetics
        b) expertise in germplasm information management systems
        c) knowledge of computer programming and experience with implementing tools and algorithms for statistical and/or scientific data analysis
  • English: written and spoken
  • Knowledge of local language an asset

Preferred

  • Specific knowledge on crop information systems and biometric data analysis; familiarity with plant stress; grain nutrition and agronomic traits
  • Ability to interact as a member of an interdisciplinary research team
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills


JOIN US TO DELIVER RICE SCIENCE FOR A BETTER WORLD

IRRI headquarters are located in Los Baños, 70 kilometers south of Manila, Philippines. We offer scientists stimulating and rewarding career opportunities, in addition to salaries and perquisites that are internationally competitive, including support for education of children, car and housing at reasonable rental rates, and medical and retirement benefits.

We provide a gender-sensitive environment and strongly encourage women applicants. Citizens of developing countries, particularly of rice-producing countries, are encouraged to apply. The Institute is committed to assisting families in making personal and, to the extent possible, professional adjustments to the local environment. IRRI has an accredited international school (pre-K to early primary) on its campus and excellent international schools are available nearby.

IRS APPLICATION PROCESS

Applications will be received up until 23 January 2009 or until a suitable candidate is found.

Please submit your application via e-mail, including a comprehensive curriculum vitae and names and e-mail addresses of three referees to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Please indicate the position reference number in the e-mail subject line.

Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

CONTACT INFORMATION 

Human Resource Services
International Rice Research Institute
Los Banos, Laguna, Philippines
Mail: DAPO Box 7777, Metro Manila, Philippines
Telephone: +63 (2) 580-5600
Fax: +63 (2) 580-5699, 845-0606