The Africa-based, globally networked International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) helps reduce poverty, hunger and environmental degradation by enhancing livestock agriculture in developing countries. ILRI positions its work at the dynamic interface of poverty alleviation and sustainable livestock livelihoods. Our
staff work in partnerships and alliances with diverse organisations in developed and developing countries, including some of the finest universities and research institutes in the world. ILRI’s headquarters are in Nairobi, Kenya, with a second principal campus in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Our staff are also based in 7 partner institutions in other parts of Africa and in Asia and Latin America. We employ more than 700 staff from about 40 countries and are one of 15 centres around the world sponsored by the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR).
The position: ILRI seeks to recruit a research and policy analyst to join a small team of professionals working on the Regional Strategic Analysis and Knowledge Support System (ReSAKSS) program for Eastern and Central Africa (ECA). The objective of ReSAKSS is to provide analysis, data, and tools to promote evidence-based decision making, improve awareness of the role of agriculture for development in Africa, fill knowledge gaps, promote dialogue, and facilitate the implementation of the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme of the New Partnership for Africa’s Development and the African Union Commission and other regional agricultural development initiatives in Africa. The successful candidate will work with the ReSAKSS node based at ILRI-Nairobi which is set up to serve the COMESA region.
Specific duties will include:

1. Undertaking analytical work based on regional priorities in agriculture and rural development. Areas of research may include regional trade analysis, food security research, agricultural investment analysis, vulnerability assessments and risk analysis, and impact assessment.
2. Supporting the development of a demand-driven knowledge management system, supported by a monitoring and evaluation system and an appropriate web-based platform to share data and analysis.
3. Synthesis of studies and literature around topical issues affecting agriculture and rural development in the region to generate policy relevant messages.
4. Communication and Representation: Participate in the communication of ReSAKSS’ work, e.g. through preparation of ReSAKSS publications such as working papers, policy briefs, technical reports, journal publications, conference papers and presentations at policy conferences.
5. Contributing to the capacity building component of ReSAKSS including organizing and implementing policy relevant training for ReSAKSS’ stakeholders.
6. Contributing to the organization of conferences, seminars, and workshops organized or co-organized by ReSAKSS.

Preferred Skills:

• A Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics, Economics or any other related field.
• At least three years post-Ph.D. working experience in research and policy analysis in developing countries, preferably in Africa.
• Familiarity with and deep understanding of agricultural and rural development issues in Africa, particularly in the COMESA region.
• A good understanding of policy processes in the COMESA region.
• Proven analytical and research skills through a track record of scientific publications.
• Strong English language skills, both written and spoken, with a demonstrated record of publications in professional outlets. Knowledge of French will be an added advantage.
• Ability and willingness to work in multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural teams in a developing country setting. Experience with projects that bridge different approaches and disciplines will be an added advantage.
• Experience in making presentations to large audiences at national and regional levels.

Other key qualifications:

• Demonstrated ability to draft high-quality analytical and policy documents and related correspondence.
• Ability to work under pressure, often to tight deadlines without compromising the quality of deliverables.
• Demonstrated good organizational skills and ability to work with a minimum of supervision.
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain professional contacts, and to interact with national officials and experts, other researchers, international organizations, development partners, and other ReSAKSS’ stakeholders.
• A willingness to travel frequently within and outside the COMESA region.
• Proven ability to mobilize resources.

Terms of appointment: This is an Internationally Recruited position with initial appointment for three years with the possibility of renewal, contingent upon individual performance and the availability of funding. ILRI offers a competitive international remuneration package paid in US dollars.
Applications: Applicants should send a cover letter, curriculum vitae and the names and addresses (including telephone, fax and email) of three referees who are knowledgeable about the candidate’s professional qualifications and work experience, to e-mail: . Screening of applications will commence on 7TH July 2010 until the position is filled.
The Title and reference number of the position: “POLICY ANALYST-PA/MK/06/10’ should be clearly indicated on the email subject line. Due to the high volume of applications that we receive, we regret but only online applications will be considered and only short listed candidates will be contacted.
To find more about ILRI, visit our website www.ilri.org
ILRI is an equal opportunities employer.
Qualified women and professionals from developing countries are particularly encouraged to apply

Breach of Trust

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