AVRDC-The World Vegetable Center is a nonprofit, autonomous international agricultural research center with headquarters in Taiwan and regional offices around the globe. The Center conducts research and development programs that contribute to improved incomes and diets in the developing world. The Center ’s Regional Center for South Asia (RCSA) in collaboration with Sir Ratan Tata Trust, is implementing a five year project: Improvingvegetable production and consumption for sustainable rural livelihoods in Jharkhand and Punjab, India. The goal of the project is to enhance rural livelihoods in tribal areas of Jharkhand and rural areas of Punjab. RCSA is seeking highly motivated Indian nationals for the following positions:

Key responsibilities:

1. Coordinate all monitoring and evaluation activities of the project;
2. Provide technical and analytical support to the project coordinator/ project manager on all matters related to conducting, monitoring and evaluating experimental trials / activities;
3. Collect data and maintain databases on indicators in the sub-project’s consolidated action plan for use in technical project reports and publications ;
4. Provide technical assistance in marketing, disseminating and promoting good practices and lessons learned from various project activities ;
5. Help organize and coordinate trainings to build up and strengthen the capacity of local partners in carrying out research and extension activities for vegetable growers;
6. Assist in developing training extension documents, materials and programs in coordination with project team members;
7. Assist in the preparation of periodic progress reports, technical papers, presentations for meetings and annual reports as needed for donors, project beneficiaries, and team members.

Qualifications and experience: Master’s degree in a griculture /h orticulture; preferably with advanced studies or training on vegetable crops and marketing; At least two years of related work experience; Keen analytical skills and ability to conduct, monitor and evaluate experimental trials; Strong written and verbal communication skills in English and also the local language of the respective states; Proficiency in the use of various software applications (MS Word, MS Excel, COSTAT) and adequate knowledge and practical experience in handling variety evaluation trials; Ability to develop, manage and deliver products within agreed timeframe.

Appointment: The incumbents will be based at Hyderabad, India. The initial appointment is for two years with expectation of annual re-appointments depending on performance and requirements . Salary and perquisites are commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Application: Submit a letter of application, curriculum vitae, one recent passport size photograph, names and contact addresses (phone number and e-mail) of three referees, attested copies of degrees/experience certificates obtained, and a letter highlighting relevant work experience, including a statement explaining your interest in working for The World Vegetable Center - RCSA. Send to: Dr. M.L. Chadha, Director, The World Vegetable Center-Regional Center for South Asia (RCSA), ICRISAT campus, Patancheru 502 324, Hyderabad, India; e-mail: AVRDC-RCSA@cgiar.org; mchadha@cgiar.org; Tel: +91 40 3071 3755, Fax: +91 40 3071 3074/3075 .

Closing Date: The closing date of application is 31 July 2008 or until the position is filled. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.