Overview
The role involves contributing to a programme of work on sustainable crop production systems, with emphasis on the greater incorporation of ecosystem-based approaches, specifically focusing on biostimulants and biofertilizers.
Key Responsibilities
- Review existing literature and available guidelines and regulations related to plant biostimulants and biofertilizers.
- Outline the structure of the guidelines for plant biostimulants, prepare the zero-draft of international guidelines and facilitate consultations for review and comments.
- Support the organization and coordination of Biostimulants and Biofertilizers Task Force meetings and multi-stakeholder dialogue to validate the developed guidelines.
- Update as applicable and prepare the final draft of the guidelines for biostimulants for internal review and approval.
- Develop a strategy to promote the implementation of the developed guidelines for biostimulants and biofertilizers, including educational materials, a capacity-building program, and awareness-raising events.
- Contribute to the development of project proposals for that promote sustainable fertilizer management and scaling up of biostimulant and biofertilizer production and utilization.
- Contribute to the development of technical factsheets, training guides, reports, policy briefs, strategic documents and provide technical oversight of procurement and quality assurance of fertilizer and plant nutrition inputs, to support efficient plant nutrition management.
- Support the organization of webinars and seminars on themes that are relevant to sustainable crop production, including integrated nutrient management, agroecology, biofertilizers and biostimulants.
- Undertake technical backstopping missions, as required, to support the implementation of the above activities, including those related to biostimulants, biofertilizers, sustainable fertilizer management and integrated nutrient management.
Required Experience
- Minimum of five years of relevant experience in fertilizers, biofertilizers and biostimulants including current research, technologies, regulatory frameworks, standard specifications and policy advocacy for regulatory frameworks.
- Work experience in more than one location or area of work.
- Extent and relevance of experience in plant nutrition in the context of sustainable crop production systems.
- Solid knowledge of biostimulants and biofertilizers including their effects on plant and soil health.
- Familiarity with national and international regulations and standards, including quality, labelling, and compliance processes.
- Skills in engaging with policymakers to support regulatory frameworks and sustainable agricultural policies.
- Experience in creating and delivering training to build capacity on biostimulants and biofertilizers application and best practices.
- Demonstrated experience in collecting, analyzing and disseminating technical information and data.
- Experience in the preparation, editing and revision of technical/scientific documents and organizing meetings and workshops.
- Ability to work with diverse stakeholders and communicate technical information effectively.
- Familiarity with international organizations, regional entities, national governments and development agencies.
Qualifications
- Advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in agricultural sciences, biological science, soil science, soil microbiology, Agricultural Biotechnology, or a related field focused on plant nutrition. Consultants with a bachelor's degree need two additional years of relevant professional experience.
- For PSAs: University degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in agricultural sciences, biological science, soil science, soil microbiology, Agricultural Biotechnology, or a related field focused on plant nutrition.
