The International Water Management Institute (IWMI), a CGIAR Research Center is seeking an innovative & multi skilled candidate to join its Headquarters in Colombo, Sri Lanka, as a Senior Researcher \u2013 Aquatic Ecology.
This is an internationally recruited position; therefore, individuals with relevant abilities from diverse locations around the world are encouraged to apply.
The incumbent will lead research projects at the intersection of development and ecological objectives. The Senior Researcher will oversee the implementation of a portfolio of research projects, including CGIAR initiatives and bilaterally funded projects. The Senior Researcher will be responsible for supporting a unified and coordinated approach to project delivery. The role requires expertise in aquatic ecology and the ability to work on integrated land-water systems. Priority areas include freshwater ecosystems and sustainable use of natural resources. The successful candidate will provide planning and scientific direction for projects, mentor junior scientists, and conduct advanced & high-quality scientific research.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
Work with other CGIAR Centres and partners to coordinate scientific work and oversee the day-to-day implementation of project activities to ensure the successful implementation of theories of change and the successful delivery of identified project outcomes. Provide research leadership and guidance on ecological aspects of projects and contribute to research oversight and quality control. Communicate research results to various audiences, including non-technical audiences. Publish research results in the international scientific literature and other relevant media to ensure the dissemination of research results to targeted audiences. Coordinate with key international partners to ensure their deliverables are on time/budget and fit for purpose for IWMI. Contribute to IWMI\u2019s fundraising efforts and the development of a portfolio of research projects, in which aquatic ecology is a key component. Engage with IPBES, CBD, and other relevant multilateral environmental agreements that require an evidence base for sound global policy/strategy development. Represent IWMI at local, regional, or high-level global meetings and events, and make presentations and other intellectual contributions; manage requests.Requirements
EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:
Essential,
PhD in aquatic ecology, ideally linked to natural resource management, with at least 10-15 years of professional experience in positions of increasing responsibility. Proven experience working on freshwater ecosystem projects that integrate natural resources management with society and promote a sustainable future. Demonstrated experience in fieldwork, prioritizing monitoring surveys and data collection, with a focus on utilizing such data for societal benefit. Knowledge and research experience aligned with IWMI\u2019s overall mission of water management in developing countries, coupled with understanding the functioning of the CGIAR system. Successful track record of representing an organization at a senior level, working closely with senior colleagues, and leading high-performing teams. Experience engaging with regional networks and establishing strong partnerships with various categories of stakeholders. Significant experience producing high-quality written proposals, reports, and academic papers for scientific and non-scientific audiences, as evidenced by a strong publication record.KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:
Essential,
Deep understanding of challenges and opportunities in low-income countries and emerging economies related to water, land, agricultural development, water scarcity, drought, climate change, and vulnerability. Proven ability to communicate research results to stakeholders at different management levels in multiple countries. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, managers, and other stakeholders in a multicultural setting, demonstrating sensitivity and respect for diversity. Excellent oral and written language skills in English, including effective listening and strong verbal and written communication abilities.TRAVEL OBLIGATIONS:
Frequent international travel.
COMPETENCIES:
IWMI Senior Researchers demonstrate high levels of the following competencies:
Strategic Leadership,
Shows drive and commitment to IWMI\u2019s vision and mission; helps others understand how their efforts contribute to IWMI\u2019s work. Demonstrates and sets expectations for integrity and honesty in relation to professional ethics and practice. Treats everyone fairly, consistently, and with respect.Communication,
Demonstrates effective oral and written communications skills. Shares information with others, adapting messages to diverse audiences. Communicates and responds promptly to meet the needs of internal and external stakeholders.Stakeholder Focus & Impact Orientation,
Develops realistic plans with available resources; establishes high standards of performance and demonstrates a commitment to quality and excellence; empowers staff; focuses on results and delivers on time and within budget. Drives for results by being proactive and setting high standards for self and others; takes ownership and responsibility for maintaining a strong focus on both internal and external stakeholder needs and expectations.Research and Implementation,
Designs and executes systems for the acquisition of knowledge, critically analyzing and evaluating findings whilst effectively utilizing appropriate resources and equipment. Constructs coherent findings and articulates ideas clearly to a range of audiences, formally and informally, through a variety of techniques to promote maximum impact. Contributes to promoting the wider understanding of research.Collaboration & Teamwork,
Promotes collaboration; shares knowledge and information; builds partnerships and creates an environment for learning and continuous innovation. Creates an environment conducive to inter-disciplinary teamwork across organizational boundaries; builds alliances and promotes open communication and collaboration to achieve joint objectives.Influencing & Resolving Differences,
Gains support and commitment from others; resolves differences by determining needs and forging solutions that benefit all parties. Displays flexibility and respect for differences of opinion; demonstrates transparency and objectivity when negotiating with others.Promoting Diversity & Inclusion,
Builds diverse teams and manages differences to achieve results. Demonstrates commitment to diversity and inclusion through staffing decisions (recruitment, recognition, development, etc.). Respects and values differences, listens with an open mind and enables all staff to actively and visibly contribute.Benefits
This is an internationally recruited position with a competitive salary, an attractive retirement plan, comprehensive international health insurance, life insurance accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance, and long-term disability coverage. Internationally recruited staff who are employed at a duty station outside of their home base/country of nationality will also receive relocation assistance, a housing allowance, home-leave plane tickets for self and eligible dependents and education assistance for eligible dependents. The duration of the contract will initially be for a period of three years.
HOW TO APPLY: Apply for the position by following the application instructions at www.iwmi.org/jobs. We will be accepting applications through 24:00 (IST) on January 31, 2024 (applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis). Your application must include a CV, cover letter, and three (3) references, which may be contacted if you are shortlisted. Receipt of all applications will be acknowledged, but only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
IWMI believes that diversity powers our innovation, contributes to our excellence, and is critical for our mission. We offer a multi-cultural, multi-color, multi-generational and multi-disciplinary working environment. We are consciously creating an inclusive organization that reflects our global character and our commitment to gender equity. We, therefore, encourage applicants from all cultures, races, ethnicities, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientations, and gender identities.