Organizational Setting
The main aim of the FAO country offices, which are headed by an FAO Representative, is to assist governments to develop policies, programmes and projects to achieve food security and to reduce hunger and malnutrition, to help develop the agricultural, fisheries and forestry sectors, and to use their environmental and natural resources in a sustainable manner.
Reporting Lines
The International Specialist on Livestock Gene Bank shall operate under the overall guidance and responsibility of the FAO Representative for Georgia, the technical guidance of the Senior Animal Production and Health Officer (REU) and the direct supervision of the Technical Advisor and in close collaboration with the competent authority.
Technical Focus
Provide technical expertise for the appropriate planning, development and implementation of the FAO project and timely delivery of the project outputs.
Tasks and responsibilities
The Scientific-Research Center of Agriculture (SRCA) as the competent authority for protection of genetic resources in Georgia aims to develop a sustainable gene bank solution dedicated to preserving and managing genetic resources in the livestock sector. The Specialist on Livestock Gene Bank shall support the SRCA in the promotion of biodiversity, support the sustainable agricultural practices, and safeguard genetic material for current and future needs. More specifically the assignment shall include the following tasks and responsibilities:
โข ย ย Situational analysis through discussion with key national stakeholders, including MEPA, private sector entities, and research institutions.
โข ย ย Review of existing policies, infrastructure, public-private partnerships, state support mechanisms relevant to genetic resources.
โข ย ย Conduct a comprehensive assessment of the SRCA's existing human and financial resources, and capabilities and evaluate their current facilities, infrastructure, equipment, to support gene bank operations.
โข ย ย Develop a proposal for a sustainable gene bank system aimed towards the development of a Livestock Gene Bank that meets the capacities and needs of the SRCA and is in line with the FAO Guidelines โCRYOCONSERVATION OF ANIMAL GENETIC RESOURCESโ (FAO 2012), whilst taking in consideration the recommendations of the EUโs IMAGE Innovative Management of Animal Genetic Resources. The proposal should:
a. ย ย specify the types of genetic material types to be preserved, categorized by species and breeds.
b. ย ย Recommend equipment and technological solutions required for storage, preservation, and data management.
c. ย ย Develop a cost analysis covering setup, operational expenses, and potential funding sources.
d. ย ย Outline an implementation roadmap, including milestones, timelines, and resource allocation plans.
e. ย ย Provide risk assessment and mitigation strategies to ensure long-term sustainability.
CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING
Minimum Requirements ย ย
โข ย ย University degree in Genetics or Genomics, Animal Science or Veterinary Medicine
โข ย ย At least five (5) years of relevant work experience in managing livestock genetic resources
โข ย ย Full proficiency in English language.
FAO Core Competencies
โข ย ย Results Focus
โข ย ย Teamwork
โข ย ย Communication
โข ย ย Building Effective Relationships
โข ย ย Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement
Technical/Functional Skills
โข ย ย Knowledge in bioinformatics tools and software for genome sequencing, SNP analysis, and genetic marker identification, preserving genetic material (sperm, eggs, embryos, DNA, AI, IVF and embryo transfer).
โข ย ย Hands-on experience in designing and implementing breeding or conservation programs for livestock species, managing or working with gene banks, including the collection, storage, and distribution of genetic material.
Selection Criteria
โข ย ย Extent and diversity of experience related to the above requirements.