Scientist – Tree-Based Agriculture

CIFOR-ICRAF is seeking a Scientist for Tree-Based Agriculture in New Delhi, India. The role involves leading research to enhance integrated tree farming systems, improving yields, and increasing farmer adoption. Responsibilities include strategy development, collaboration with farmers and organizations, and managing research projects. Candidates should have a Master's or Ph.D. in relevant fields and at least 10 years of experience in farm forestry or integrated agricultural systems.
We are looking for an energetic, innovative and experienced tree-based agriculture scientist to lead our efforts to enhance adoption and scaling of integrated tree farming systems in agricultural landscapes. The role involves leading evidence-based research on improving the efficiency of integrated tree farming systems, including sustainable improvement in yields, optimisation of management practices, realization of higher net income for farmers and consequently an increased willingness to adopt tree farming by farmers and other stakeholders, especially in tree deficit landscapes. The position will be part of the India Country Program and will work closely with interdisciplinary research teams, state-level partners, government institutions, and private sector stakeholders.


The role will have national-level responsibilities, with implementation support across priority states and selected landscapes in India.


Summary of responsibilities
Develop and implement strategies to adopt integrated tree farming systems and to enhance overall farm productivity, sustainability, and biodiversity.Manage and support the implementation of tree farming practices in collaboration with small and marginal farmers and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)Work independently and/or closely with the India Country Director to develop new collaborative research ideas/proposals for possible funding support to address evolving priorities of Trees
Outside Forests (TOF) domain.
Coordinate with relevant stakeholders to develop shared priorities for collaborative research and implementation efforts, ensure proper adoption of best practices, monitor progress, and address challenges effectively.Build and maintain strong relationships with R&D organisations focused on tree farming, with the intention of supporting improvements to research programs aimed at improving integrated, tree-
based agriculture.Requirements
Education, knowledge, and experience:


Master’s or Ph.D. in Agroforestry, Agriculture or Allied Agricultural Sciences, Forestry or equivalent, with emphasis on farm forestry. A candidate with Ph.D. on a topic relevant to the position will be preferred.10 years or more of progressive experience with farm forestry and/or integrated tree-based agricultural systems. The right candidate will have a strong grounding in systems science and its application and have a proven track record of innovation, working in teams and be a highly motivated self-starter.
Personal Attributes and Competencies
Ability to plan and prioritize workload and strong monitoring, reporting, and writing skills.Good analytical skills, logical and independent mind, and interpersonal skills to produce a succinct report and research products/publications.Basic information technology knowledge (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, or any statistical software.Strong character, a multitasking person who can work under pressure.Well organized; able to meet deadlines, with a good understanding of time management.Proactive and self-motivated, able to work independently as well as in a team.Ability to work in a multi-disciplinary team environment, while functioning as an individual contributor.Proficiency in English communication (verbal and written).Willing to learn new skills/knowledge related to the scope/content of specific projects.Generates creative, practical approaches to overcome challenging situations.Willing to receive feedback from others.Has a vision to develop the organization and an intention of continuous improvement.
Terms and conditions
This is a Locally Recruited Staff (LRS) position. CIFOR-ICRAF offers competitive remuneration in local currency, commensurate with skills and experience.The appointment will be for 3 (three) years with the possibility of extension contingent upon performance, continued relevance of the position, and available resources.The duty station will be in New Delhi, India.