Readvertisement- Senior Scientist -Hydrology and Water Management Specialist

ICARDA; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

An international research organization in Abu Dhabi is seeking a Hydrology and Water Management Specialist. The role involves developing efficient water management strategies and conducting impactful research in hydrology to support agricultural practices in arid environments. Candidates should have a Ph.D., extensive research experience, and strong analytical skills alongside proficiency in GIS and remote sensing technologies.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Medical insurance

30 days of annual leave

Maternity and paternity leave

Qualifications

• 8+ years post-Ph.D. experience in dry-area hydrology research.
• Proven expertise in monitoring and modeling surface water and groundwater.
• Strong publication record in ISI-refereed journals.

Responsibilities

• Develop strategies for efficient water use in agriculture.
• Conduct field studies and analyze soil and water conditions.
• Promote sustainable agricultural practices through water management plans.

Skills

Analytical skills

Water resource management

Collaboration

Communication skills

Education

Ph.D. in hydrology or water resource engineering

Tools

GIS

Remote sensing technologies

Data analysis software

Job description

Reports to: Research Team Leader - Soil, Water, and Agronomy (SWA)

Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE

Main purpose of the position

The ICARDA Soil, Water, and Agronomy (SWA) Team implements several joint research activities for building resilience and improving water productivity of rainfed and irrigated production systems. This is achieved by combining soil health management techniques, water‑saving technologies, and agronomic practices into contextualized solutions for impact at scale. We are seeking a passionate and knowledgeable Hydrology and Water Management Specialist to join our dynamic team. This role involves the study and management of water resources in agricultural settings, ensuring sustainable water use and optimizing crop production. Conduct research and capacity building in hydrology / water resources in cooperation with researchers in developing countries and advanced institutions in dry areas and the world. To contribute to the improvement of the sustainable and productive use of water resources in agriculture to have a direct impact on the livelihoods of resource‑poor rural communities.

About ICARDA

The International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) is a treaty‑based international non‑profit research organization supported by CGIAR.

ICARDA’s mission is to reduce poverty, enhance food, water, and nutritional security, as well as environmental health in the face of global challenges including climate change. We do this through innovative science, strategic partnerships, linking research to development, and capacity development that take into account gender equality and the role of youth in transforming the dry areas. ICARDA works in partnership with governments, universities, civil society, national agricultural research organizations, other CGIAR Research Centers, and the private sector. With its temporary Headquarters in Beirut, Lebanon, ICARDA operates in regional and country offices across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. For more information: http://www.icarda.org/.

Main responsibilities

• Water Resource Management: Develop and implement strategies for efficient water use in agriculture, including irrigation systems and water conservation techniques.
• Research and Analysis: Conduct field studies and research to analyze soil and water conditions, and assess the impact of hydrological factors on crop yield. Apply and develop new tools and technologies (hydrologic models, GIS, remote sensing).
• Sustainable Practices: Promote sustainable agricultural practices by advising on water management plans that minimize environmental impact.
• Data Collection and Reporting: Collect, analyze, and interpret hydrological data to provide actionable insights and recommendations.
• Collaboration: Collaborate with other ICARDA scientists to improve the impact of problem‑solving and integrated natural resource management research. Work in interdisciplinary teams with water management, irrigation, agronomy, soil, crop, socio‑economic, and rangeland scientists on strategic and applied research problems. Work closely with farmers, agricultural engineers, and environmental scientists to develop integrated water management solutions.
• Education and Training: Provide training in all aspects and applications of agricultural hydrology for national programs in dry areas. Develop and contribute to training courses, workshops, and conferences. Keep up to date with relevant technical developments and publications. Publish research results in ISI‑refereed journals, prepare reports, training materials, and other documentation as required. Represent ICARDA in regional and international arenas.

Requirements

• Earned Ph.D. degree in hydrology, water resource engineering, or another relevant subject.
• Minimum of 8 years post‑Ph.D. experience in conducting research, preferably in dry‑area hydrology. Strong analytical skills and proficiency in data analysis software.
• Proven expertise in monitoring and modeling surface water and groundwater systems.
• A strong publication record including ISI‑refereed journals in surface and groundwater, and especially watershed research, modeling, and stochastic analysis.
• Demonstrated capacity for producing high‑quality scientific outputs.
• Application of watershed hydrologic models, GIS, and remotely sensed data to problems of water resources development and management.
• Capability to work collaboratively with international and national scientists in multidisciplinary teams.
• High level of competence in written and oral communication in English, report writing, and presentations.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to work in multi‑disciplinary teams in a multicultural, international environment.
• Excellent verbal and written English language skills.
• Previous work experience in an international and multi‑cultural environment.
• Strong innovation and experience in the developing world.
• Experience in nonconventional water resources, rainwater and atmospheric water harvesting, and small‑to‑medium‑scale desalination.
• Arabic language skills and experience working and mobilizing resources in the MENA region.

Benefits

This is a full‑time internationally recruited staff position for which ICARDA offers an attractive compensation package including a competitive salary, medical insurance, 30 days of annual leave, five months’ maternity leave, and 15 days’ paternity leave. The successful candidate will be offered an initial contract of 3 years, renewable subject to continued need for the position, availability of funds, and satisfactory performance. The first year will be a probationary period.

ICARDA accepts applications only in English, which is the organization’s official communication language. Applications in other languages will not be considered.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.