VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

Communication Specialist

The Organization

ICARDA is a non-profit international agricultural research center in a worldwide consortium of 15 centers, supported by the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR). The CGIAR is co-sponsored by the World Bank, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). With a staff of over 400 scientists and support personnel, representing more than 40 nationalities, ICARDA addresses two key areas of agricultural research: germplasm improvement (cereals and legumes) and natural resource management. The Center has a global mandate for barley, lentil and faba bean improvement, and a regional mandate for the improvement of wheat, chickpea and forage and pasture legumes. A major emphasis is placed on the conservation and management of land and water management, and improved productivity of small ruminants in integrated farming systems in dry areas. The Center's research and training programs are implemented in partnership with national programs and, in most cases, with other CGIAR centers as well as advanced research institutes in both developing and industrialized countries.

The Position

The position requires practical experience in computerized word processing, an eye for detail, and a sound knowledge of modern prepress technology. Specific responsibilities include writing, reviewing/editing research reports, training manuals, workshop proceedings and other ICARDA publications, as well as journal and conference articles generated by the Center's scientists; organizing and managing press trips, press conferences and producing press releases, briefings and backgrounders; and contributing material to and updating ICARDA's website regularly. Successful candidate will be expected to work under pressure. The position reports to the Head of Communication, Documentation and Information Services.

Required Qualifications

* Bachelor's degree in agriculture or a related discipline (master's preferred)
* Degree or equivalent practical experience in journalism with emphasis on editing and publishing
* Ability to work as a team member with colleagues of different nationalities/cultural backgrounds
* Excellent command over both written and spoken English

Terms of Appointment

The appointment will be for an initial period of one year, renewable thereafter on an annual basis. The salary is paid in US dollars. Benefits include housing allowance, paid home leave travel, a savings scheme, life and health insurance package, vehicle for business and personal use, and free enrollment for dependent children in the ICARDA-administered International School (KG-Grade 12).

Living in Syria

ICARDA's headquarters are situated 30 km south of Aleppo, Syria's second largest city. In addition to an internationally-accredited School, ICARDA runs a Sports and Social Club for the staff. Syria has many historical and archaeological sites, some a short drive from Aleppo. There are four distinct seasons and the terrain varies from desert to mountains to fertile fruit orchards. Major international airlines fly into and from Damascus and Aleppo.

Application

Qualified applicants are invited to send:
1) cover letter of interest, including recent salary history;
2) curriculum vitae;
3) names of/contact information for three professional referees;
4) photocopies of relevant supporting documents;

(If sending by e-mail, please do not include graphics or other large file attachments.)

REFERENCE: quote INT-RA/8048/05 on the application (or subject line if applying by e-mail).

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Applications must be received by 27 October 2005.

ICARDA is an equal opportunity employer, and encourages applications from women.