Senior Scientist (Governance)

Background information:

WorldFish is seeking a senior scientist and research leader with experience in governance of natural resources to lead our contributions in this area to the CGIAR Research Programs.

 

The CGIAR implements its agenda through fifteen research programs that integrate across the CG centers. WorldFish is the convening center for the Aquatic Agricultural Systems program. The program aims to improve the livelihoods and nutritional security of 21 million people over the next decade in Asia, Africa, and the Pacific.

 

The senior scientist will co-lead the governance theme within the AAS program, and provide a focal point for WorldFish work on governance of small-scale fisheries and aquaculture in other programs.

By addressing issues of stakeholder representation, decision-making authority, and accountability, our work on governance aims to help clarify and tackle a range of key challenges:

• Reducing gender inequities reinforced by institutional and legal or regulatory factors beyond the local community 
• Improving social-ecological resilience by addressing institutions and structures that perpetuate social exclusion and vulnerability to environmental change
• Increasing agricultural productivity through improved access and management of natural resources
• Increasing income that small-scale producers and processers derive from participation in value chains by changing rules and regulations that discriminate against them
• Scaling up innovations by contributing to changes in the policies and practices of governments, corporations, and development partners

Participatory action research is a keystone of our approach—aiding communities, NGOs, government agencies and other stakeholders to directly assess their own governance context, and to build a constituency for policy and institutional reforms. 

 

WorldFish is organized by disciplinary groups and country offices. The position holder will build teams from among these to implement the governance research agenda, working closely with external partners.

 

 

Key responsibilities:

• Provide scientific leadership in the area of governance research and policy engagement
• Lead and nurture a cross-regional team of scientists working within this theme to design and implement high quality research projects at global, regional and country levels, and implement these with a focus on outcomes
• Lead efforts to synthesize and communicate the lessons of these experiences internationally through participation in influential research and policy networks

 

 

Essential skills and qualifications:

• PhD or equivalent degree in relevant social science discipline, law, or policy analysis
• 8 years or more relevant experience in applied research
• Excellent English language writing and speaking skills
• In-depth knowledge in the research field, and demonstrated ability to apply that knowledge to the design of outcome-oriented initiatives
• Ability to manage multi-partner, cross-regional, and multi-disciplinary teams
• Exceptional creative and analytical skills as applied to research, partner relations, strategy development, project design, and other challenges
• Strong record of scientific analysis and publications, with an established reputation in relevant research networks

 

 

Desired skills and abilities:

• Practical experience in fisheries, aquaculture, natural resource management or agricultural development in regions where we work
• Knowledge of and ability to navigate within a range of social-cultural and political contexts, and a range of organizational settings from civil society, private sector, government, and development agencies

 

 

WorldFish is committed to developing an inclusive work environment where diversity of thought, style, culture and experience is valued in support of individual performance and potential, as well as our business goals and mission.  WorldFish offers a competitive compensation and benefits package. Women are encouraged to apply.

 

Interested applicants are invited to submit your application and the following information latest by 11 August 2014:

1. a letter of application including a 300 word (max) description of why you are an ideal candidate and what you would bring to the role.
2. a current curriculum vitae
3. names and contacts (telephone, fax, and e-mail addresses) of three professional referees who are familiar with your qualifications and work experience

 

This position will likely be based at WorldFish headquarters in Penang, Malaysia; however, based on the experience of the successful candidate, a posting in one of our other offices will be considered. Candidates with fewer years of experience are encouraged to apply for consideration at the Scientist grade level. Only short-listed candidates will be notified.