National Coordinator, Cowpea Scaling Project at the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR) Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR) Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria - The Feed the Future Programme of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is supporting the Scaling of improved Cowpea technologies that will enhance the productivity of the crop in West Africa. The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in collaboration with the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR) is implementing the scaling out of relevant technologies that have the potential to increase cowpea production in Nigeria.

We are currently inviting applications for the position of:

Job Title: National Coordinator, Cowpea Scaling Project

Location: IAR/IITA Station, Kano

Responsibilities

• Establishment of new partnerships with diverse stakeholders including extension organizations, NGOS, National Seed Council and private sector entities especially agrochemical dealers and relevant organizations and bodies in the country.
• Identification and involving existing community based cowpea seed producers, seed companies while also encouraging establishment of small scale seed enterprises in Nigeria.
• Work closely with cowpea breeders, entomologists, agronomists and social scientists of national institutions in the country to evaluate and disseminate improved cowpea varieties and complementary crop management practices
• Implement National seed road map for cowpea in Nigeria.
• Assist the Project coordinator in the monitoring of national project activities.
• Be prepared to travel extensively in the country.
• Participate in the establishment of community seed growers and their proper training in seed production, handling and packaging.
• Participate in establishing demonstrations plots showcasing improved technologies.
• The candidate will prepare reports for the donors on project activities in Nigeria as and when due.
• He will also carry out other activities as directed by the project coordinator based at IITA.

Educational Qualification

• The Candidate should have a University degree in Crop Science/Agronomy or its equivalent and at least five years working experience in extension or NGO's project in the country.
• He must be good in spoken and written English and of amiable interpersonal qualities.
• Possession of M.Sc degree will be an added advantage.

General Information
The appointment is on contract for a period of three years with possibility of renewal based on performance and availability of funding.

Salary
Salary is competitive and attractive.

Application Closing Date
28th April, 2015.

Method of Application
Applications must include covering letter which should address how the candidate's background/experience relates to the specific duties of the position applied for, curriculum vitae, names and addresses of three professional referees (which MUST include either the Head of the applicant's current or previous organization or applicant's direct Supervisor/Superior at his/her present or former place of work). The application should be addressed to the:

Secretary,
Institute for Agricultural Research,
Ahmadu Bello University,
Zaria.