Community Manager - Unannounced Game

IRTA is currently seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Researcher with a PhD related to the fields of Agronomy and Crop Science to join the Sustainable Field Crops Program. The researcher will coordinate and lead variety testing networks, optimize agronomic practices and be involved in knowledge transfer to farmers and related industry. A strong connection to the private sector, including local and international seed companies will also be required. The appointed candidate will lead research of excellence to boost advances in this area of knowledge.

• Head of the Program: Dr Marta da Silva
• Program’s key researcher for this position: Joan Serra
• Full-time position: 37.5 h/week
• Terms of appointment: permanent position or IRTA Consolida (tenure track) position subject to the qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.
• Gross annual salary: to be resolved according to the qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.
• Employee Benefits: 22 vacation days, 3 days of family & work conciliation, 45h of personal days, Friday afternoon off, Compressed Summer schedule from 15/06 to 15/09, Conciliation schedule.

Tasks and Responsibilities:

• Coordinate variety testing network: Lead and manage a network of post-registration variety testing for cereals and legumes across Catalonia. Ensure rigorous testing protocols and accurate data collection.
• Research and Innovation Integration: Integrate the latest research findings and innovations within the program (plant material, agronomic practices and precision agriculture) into knowledge transfer programs. Work closely with research teams to translate scientific advancements into practical applications.
• Grant Writing and Project Management: Secure funding for knowledge transfer projects through grant writing and managing budgets. Ensure projects are completed on time and within budget. Collaboration with other research programs at IRTA that reduce reliance on chemical pesticides by incorporating biological controls, crop rotation, and precision application techniques and adapted germplasm.
• Private sector collaboration: Foster and maintain relationships with local and international seed companies. Collaborate on the development and promotion of new seed varieties.
• Organize field days and conferences: Plan and execute field days, workshops, and conferences to showcase the best new varieties to farmers each year. Provide practical demonstrations and hands-on learning opportunities.
• Industry partnerships: Work closely with the industry (for food and feed) and other stakeholders to promote the production of local grains using sustainable agronomic practices with reduced pesticide and fertilizer use.
• Knowledge transfer services: Provide timely expert advice and solutions to farmers on the most pressing issues in field crops production. Address challenges such as drought, heat waves, cold spells, and emerging pests and diseases.
• Content development and dissemination: Develop and maintain high-quality, up-to-date content on field crops production. Ensure the information provided is relevant, accurate, and useful for farmers. Oversee the maintenance and regular updating of the knowledge transfer service’s webpage (extensius.cat). Ensure the content is current, easily accessible, and visited by hundreds of farmers. Provide timely updates on new research findings, best practices, and practical solutions to common agricultural problems.
• Sustainable practices promotion: Advocate for and promote sustainable agronomic production systems. Educate farmers on practices that minimize input use while maintaining productivity and environmental health.
• Problem-Solving: Be readily available to offer solutions to farmers for any problems encountered throughout the growing season. Provide timely and effective recommendations to address issues as they arise.
• Quality assurance: Ensure the quality of information and advice provided to farmers meets the highest standards. Continuously update knowledge and skills to provide the best possible support.
• Network leadership: Lead a team of knowledge transfer agents and collaborators, providing guidance, training, and support to enhance the effectiveness of knowledge transfer services.
• Community engagement: Engage with the agricultural community to understand their needs, gather feedback, and tailor knowledge transfer services accordingly. Build strong relationships with farmers and industry partners.

Required qualifications and experience:

• Ph.D. in Agronomy, Crop breeding, Crop Science, Agricultural Engineering, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in agricultural knowledge transfer, research, or a related field, with a focus on field crops.
• Proven experience working with local and international seed companies and other private sector partners.
• Strong understanding of variety testing protocols, sustainable agriculture practices, and integrated pest management. Implementation and management of field trials. Proficiency in data collection and analysis.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Experience in organizing and presenting at field days, workshops, and conferences.
• Demonstrated ability to provide timely practical solutions to farmers facing various agricultural challenges.
• Proven leadership skills with experience in managing and guiding a team of extension agents and collaborators.
• Ability to integrate the latest research findings into extension programs and practical applications.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with farmers and industry stakeholders.
• Experience in writing grant proposals and managing extension projects, including budget oversight.
• Willingness to stay updated with advancements in agriculture and adjust extension strategies accordingly.
• Commitment to maintaining the highest standards of information and advice provided to farmers.

Desirable requirements:

• Full driving license for Europe and travelling availability.
• Expertise in methodological approaches to develop empirical and mechanistic models.
• Advanced user of Statistical analysis software.

Languages:

• Proficiency in Catalan and Spanish.
• Proficiency in English is valued.

Application process:

If you wish to be considered for this position, please apply via our Recruitment Platform to the job post with reference 20/25 and upload your CV and motivation letter until 17/03/2025. All information will be treated in the strictest confidence.