POSITION PROFILE
Australian Centre for
International Agricultural
Research
Position Number:
99911
Classification:
Executive Level 2
(RPM 1, 2 or 3)
Title:
Research Program Manager
Program:
Research and Development Programs
Sub Program:
Soil Management and Crop Nutrition
Supervisor:
Deputy Director (PN 99902)
(R & D Programs)
Profile:
The purpose of the Soil Management and Crop Nutrition (SMCN) program is to
utilise collaborative R&D partnerships to improve the productivity and
sustainability of field crop farming systems through research and development
in developing countries and Australia.
The position has responsibility for managing a portfolio of research and
development projects commissioned by ACIAR in soil management, crop
nutrition, agricultural engineering and in related areas. The projects involve
research institutions in Australia, developing countries and International
Agricultural Research Centres within ACIAR's mandate area. The position
also plays a wider corporate role by contributing to activities in the research
program including peer review of ACIAR projects, contribution to submissions
and reviews, and contribution to internal committees.
It is one of a team of senior research managers who share similar
responsibilities, and have direct linkages and accountability to ACIAR's
Executive and Board of Management. The position will work in a small team
of Program Managers and program assistants, in particular complementing
the work of programs including
-
Land and Water Resources Management (at the broader-scale and in
less favourable environments)
Crop improvement
Agricultural systems economics and management
Duties:
Manage ACIAR's Soil Management and Crop Nutrition program and
contribute to ACIAR corporate activities through the following duties:
1.
Identify and assess natural resource management issues, especially
those related to on-farm crop and soil management problems and
needs in ACIAR’s partner countries, and the extent to which these can
be alleviated through scientific research. Prioritise solution of these
problems in line with ACIAR's mandate and mode of operation.
2.
Develop, implement, monitor, review and evaluate a program of
activities addressing soil and crop management priorities, by:
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producing original and innovative ideas for research projects
which involve research, development and capacity building in
priority areas
assisting in the preparation and appraisal of proposals for
research and development projects
having a key role in developing the scientific and technical basis
of contracts for approved projects
coordinating and monitoring progress of implementation of the
projects by collaborating agencies
analysing and evaluating the results of research in programs
and projects, and identifying extension initiatives where
appropriate.
3.
Maximise the potential contribution of project findings to the solution of
identified technical problems by facilitating the appropriate
communication of the results of ACIAR projects to relevant research,
development and extension services. Where appropriate participate in
international seminars and workshops on the research results.
4.
Advise ACIAR and other agencies on matters relating to soil
management and crop nutrition, maintain effective liaison and
communication with ACIAR's clients, and represent ACIAR as required.
5.
Manage budget and reporting aspects of the program in a competent
and timely manner.
6.
Contribute to activities in the research program, including peer review
of ACIAR projects, contribution to submissions and reviews, and
contribution to internal committees.
7.
Supervise program support staff, in accordance with ACIAR’s Certified
Agreement, Government policy and overarching legislation.
8.
Contribute to the corporate development of ACIAR by assisting in the
induction, training and mentoring of staff and participation in broader
corporate activities.
SELECTION CRITERIA
Executive Level 2
Research Program Manager
Soil Management and Crop Nutrition
Position Number 99911
1.
Degree of Doctor of Philosophy or equivalent in a field relevant to soil
science, crop nutrition, agronomy or agricultural engineering.
2.
Very high level of achievement, experience and reputation in soil
science, crop nutrition, agricultural engineering, agronomy or related
natural resource management research in Australia and internationally.
3.
Ability to develop and promote a strategic vision for the program area
in accord with ACIAR’s research priorities, the needs of partner
countries and the Government’s aid program.
4.
Very high level of achievement and experience in research program
management. This will include evidence of the ability to effectively
manage resources, develop and maintain productive working
relationships with providers, develop project proposals and implement,
monitor, evaluate and report on progress of approved projects.
5.
Capacity to represent ACIAR and to communicate with national and
international stakeholders at highest management levels in government
agencies and scientific establishments, with sensitivity to cross cultural
issues. This will include evidence of well-developed oral and written
communication skills.
6.
Ability to develop and maintain productive working relationships with
others in ACIAR by participating in broader organisational activities and
maximising benefits of collegiate collaboration on cross-program
projects and issues. Excellent interpersonal skills, including good
networking and influencing skills.
7.
Proven capacity to work in a small inter-disciplinary team, and to
effectively supervise staff.
8.
A client orientation, and proven commitment to the transfer and
adoption of the results of research.
August
2003