V A C A N C Y    A N N O U N C E M E N T

INTERNATIONAL CENTER FOR AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH IN THE DRY AREAS
P.O. Box 5466, Aleppo, Syria
Phone: (963-21) 2213433, 2213477, 2225112, 2225012
Fax: (963-21) 2213490, 2225105;
E-mail: ICARDA-JOBS@CGIAR.ORG
Website: www.icarda.org
Science Writer/Editor
Aleppo, Syria
The Organization
Established in 1977 as an autonomous, non-profit, international research center, ICARDA is one of the 15 international research centers supported by the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR), which is co-sponsored by the World Bank, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and the United Nations Development Programme. ICARDA's mission is to contribute to the improvement of livelihoods of the resource-poor in dry areas by enhancing food security and alleviating poverty through research and partnerships to achieve sustainable increases in agricultural productivity and income, while ensuring the efficient and more equitable use and conservation of natural resources. With its main research station and headquarters in Aleppo, Syria, and a staff of over 500 scientists and support personnel, ICARDA works through a network of partnerships with national agricultural research systems (NARS), regional and international institutions, universities, advanced research institutes, and non-governmental organizations. In addition to its headquarters programs, ICARDA operates throughout the non-tropical dry areas through regional programs and country offices.

The Position
The position is designed for an experienced and self-motivated person with a background in science writing/editing. The incumbent will report to the Head of Communication, Documentation and Information Services at ICARDA headquarters and will have the following responsibilities:
•
 Write/edit a range of publications including technical reports, journal articles, general-audience articles, posters, and brochures
•
 Work with design, prepress and printing staff to coordinate production of publications, posters and other public awareness material
•
 Write press releases, media backgrounders and magazine articles
•
 Write/edit material for the ICARDA website
The position requires familiarity with prepress technology. The successful candidate will be expected to work under pressure to meet tight deadlines.

Qualifications and Experience
•
 Excellent written and spoken English
•
 Bachelor's degree in agriculture or a related discipline (Master's preferred); or in journalism, mass communications or equivalent
•
 At least five years experience in science writing and editing
•
 Excellent inter-personal skills, and ability to work as a team member with colleagues of different nationalities/cultural backgrounds
•
 Experience in media liaison (arranging press and TV coverage, organizing press conferences) would be a major advantage

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
Aleppo is Syria's second largest city. 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 out of Damascus and Aleppo. In addition to the internationally-accredited School, ICARDA runs a Sports and Social Club for the staff.

Method of Application
Qualified applicants are invited to send:
1-
Cover letter of interest (no more than 2 pages) highlighting the candidate's experience against the criteria listed under Qualifications and Competencies, including salary expectations and noting where the candidate saw the advertisement.
2-
Curriculum vitae
3-
Names, addresses, fax numbers and e-mail addresses of three professional referees (they will not be contacted without the candidate's permission),
to: 
 Personnel Services
ICARDA, P.O. Box 5466, Aleppo, Syria
Telephone: (963-21) 2213477, 2225112, or 2225012
Fax: (963-21) 2213490, 2225105, or 5744622
E-mail: ICARDA-JOBS@CGIAR.ORG
Website: http://www.icarda.org
              (If sending by e-mail, please do not include graphics or other large file attachments.)

Quote reference INT-RA/8524/08 on application (or in subject line if applying by e-mail).
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Applications must be received by 4 December 2008

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

Posted on 3 November 2008 
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