Senior Research Assistant - WEFE Nexus Management

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Senior Research Assistant - WEFE Nexus Management, Montpellier

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Client:

ICARDA

Location:

Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Reference:

577e009afe4a

Job Views:

3

Posted:

27.04.2025

Expiry Date:

11.06.2025

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Job Description:

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

Location: Rabat, Morocco

Main purpose of position

The ICARDA Soil, Water, and Agronomy (SWA) Team implements joint research activities to build resilience and improve water productivity of rainfed and irrigated systems. This involves soil health management, water-saving technologies, and agronomic practices for impact at scale. The WEFE Nexus approach emphasizes the interdependence of water, energy, food security, and ecosystems. The candidate will support the development of smart solutions to optimize energy use and reduce greenhouse gases, advancing climate-smart innovations like renewable energy and bioenergy, focusing on community-scale, sustainable, and economical solutions. The role includes researching ecosystem trade-offs and synergies, collaborating on projects related to irrigation, water management, and agronomy, and contributing to the water-energy-food-carbon nexus improvements. Responsibilities also include data collection, analysis, reporting, dissemination, and partnership negotiations.

About ICARDA

The International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) is a CGIAR-supported, treaty-based international non-profit dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing food, water, and nutritional security, and protecting the environment in dry areas, through innovative science and partnerships. ICARDA operates globally with regional offices and is undergoing a reform process to improve impact and integration.

Main responsibilities

• Participate in planning and implementing WEFE nexus research trials in Morocco.
• Support field activities and coordinate trials in various locations.
• Conduct and supervise data collection, site characterization, and equipment maintenance.
• Improve energy efficiency and renewable energy approaches in farming.
• Support the development of farm performance assessment tools.
• Conduct regional needs assessments and surveys.
• Collaborate with government, research, and private sector partners.
• Prepare reports, publications, and policy briefs.
• Contribute to capacity building through training and supervision.
• Travel extensively for fieldwork and troubleshooting.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Requirements

Education, qualifications, and experience

Essential qualifications and competencies

• Master’s degree in relevant fields such as agriculture water management, irrigation, or environmental management.
• 2-4 years of experience in field trials related to soil and water management with international/regional organizations.
• Experience in designing irrigation systems at farm and scheme levels.
• Knowledge of precision farming and digital agriculture tools.
• Understanding of the Water-Energy-Food nexus in MENA countries.
• Proficiency in English, Arabic, and French.
• Strong teamwork, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work in a dynamic environment and travel within Morocco and the region.