Deadline: 07 March 2023

The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) seeks to recruit a post-Doctoral scientist to apply system dynamics modeling techniques through the use of participatory processes that co-construct ex-ante impact assessment models of livestock value chains in an interdisciplinary team of social science and biosciences researchers. 

The position is open to national and international applicants and will be based in Dakar, Senegal.

1. Responsibilities

The post-doctoral scientist will work in a large multidisciplinary team supporting in value chain modelling and system dynamics tools to support the development and implementation of interventions in livestock value chains, using a range of cutting-edge participatory processes and modeling platforms pioneered at ILRI over the past decade to engage in model building processes with stakeholders, conduct scenario analysis, and support the trailing of identified technologies.  More specifically the Post-doctoral scientist will. 

• Implement protocols for the delivery of participatory group model building sessions to develop system dynamics models of selected livestock value chains and intervention options.
• Develop new system dynamics-based modules to address issues of gender, value chain finance, institutional arrangements and business models, disease spread, and land use and integrate within the developed common value chain modelling platform;
• Pilot test new models and modules through a combination of primary and secondary data collection and the use of participatory processes to engage stakeholders in model building and data collection;
• Use developed models to conduct “what-if” scenarios of prospective intervention options, liaising closely with stakeholder groups and assisting partners in implementing recommended policy options.
• Support the development and implementation of national livestock master plans  with quantitative value chain analysis and investment prioritization.
• Support preparation of training manuals and capacity development activities
• Dissemination of project outputs through the generation of working papers and peer-reviewed journal articles.
• Collaborate closely with research partners in planning and carrying out research.

II. Requirements

• Ph.D. in Applied empirical modelling of natural systems, including agricultural/livestock economics, system dynamics, or geography, is required.
• At least two (2) years of experience in the development and application of system dynamics models in the context of agricultural/livestock value chains and/or natural systems.
• Expert knowledge of system dynamics techniques and software (Stella and/or Vensim). Please note: candidates without this knowledge will NOT be considered;
• Experience in conducting qualitative and quantitative value chain assessments of agriculture/livestock in developing countries, including survey design and administration, value chain analysis, and quantitative scenario testing through system modeling techniques.
• Application and/or knowledge of participatory approaches to develop system dynamics models of agricultural/livestock value chains, including the use of group or mediated model building techniques with agricultural/livestock value chain stakeholders in developing countries
• A record of publication in high-quality, peer-reviewed international journals.
• Hands-on field experience in the developing world, particularly in complex environments.
• Willingness to travel and spend significant time in field conditions in rural areas.
• Experience in the development of web-based interfaces for the dissemination of systems models.

III. Terms of Appointment

• This position is at job level HG 16 and is open to national and international applicants.
• The position is a two (2) year renewable contract subject to satisfactory performance and funding availability.
• ILRI offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including medical and other insurance.

IV. Applications

• Applicants should send a cover letter and CV expressing their interest in the position, what they can bring to the role and the names and addresses (including telephone and email) of three referees who are knowledgeable about the candidate’s professional qualifications and work experience to the Director, People and Organizational Development through ILRI recruitment portal HERE before the deadline.
• The position title and reference number: PIL/896/2023 should be clearly marked on the subject line of the online application.
• ILRI thanks all applicants for their interest in working for ILRI. Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• ILRI does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview meeting, processing or training). ILRI also does not concern itself with information on applicants’ bank accounts.
• Qualified women applicants are encouraged to apply

V. About ILRI

ILRI works to improve food and nutritional security and reduce poverty in developing countries through research for efficient, safe and sustainable use of livestock. It is the only one of 15 CGIAR research centres dedicated entirely to animal agriculture research for the developing world. Co-hosted by Kenya and Ethiopia, it has regional or country offices and projects in East, South and Southeast Asia as well as Central, East, Southern and West Africa.

To find out more, please  visit ILRI website