Scientist - Crop Modeler (IRS-2011-12-AN)

Reference number: IRS-2011-12-AN

Apply by: 31 October 2011

The International Rice Research Institute is seeking a crop modeler to be a member of its internationally-recruited staff. The position will be based in the Institute’s Social Sciences Division through the project “Remote sensing-based Information and Insurance for Crops in Emerging economies”. The RIICE project aims to develop prediction systems of rice yield and production in several Asian countries by combined use of crop growth simulation models, remote sensing, spatial data bases, and expert knowledge. The main purpose of the crop modeler will be to assimilate spatial and survey data relevant to crop modeling (eg., soil properties, weather, actual crop management practices, actual yields), and to further develop the rice simulation model ORYZA2000 in conjunction with empirical models and spatial data to better estimate and forecast actual rice yields in Asia under irrigated and rainfed conditions. The crop modeler will collaborate with, the Social Sciences Division; the crop modeling team housed within the Crop and Environmental Sciences Division, and national partners.

Major accountabilities/Responsibilities
• Development of routines in ORYZA2000 to better estimate actual (or farmers’) yields under certain yield-limiting or yield-reducing conditions
• To explore empirical models for yield forecasting based on remote sensing, historical yield trends, and the use of these in a rice yield-forecasting system (alongside or in place of ORYZA2000)
• Development of a user friendly interface between ORYZA2000/the empirical models and spatial and other input datasets for operational running of the system for yield forecasts
• To oversee and guide the compilation of these datasets for target regions of Asia in collaboration with in-country partners
• To provide training in crop modeling and the developed yield forecasting system to in-country partners

Qualification requirements
• PhD degree or equivalent qualifications in agricultural or biological sciences (preferably with a background in crop physiology or biological systems modeling)
• 2-3 years of post PhD experience
• Fluent in English
• Crop modeling, programming, some exposure to spatial data and empirical modeling; knowledge of rice production practices in Asia; demonstrated ability to work on a multicultural and multidisciplinary team

Screening will start on 31 October 2011 and will continue until a suitable candidate has been found.

Please indicate the position reference number in the e-mail subject line. IRRI regrets that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

IRRI provides a multicultural work environment that reflects the values of gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity, with a competitive compensation and benefit package. Women are encouraged to apply.

Join us to deliver rice science for a better world

Interested candidates should apply online (click apply now). Should you encounter problems applying online please email at IRRIrecruitment@irri.org.

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