•PhD in plant pathology with strong expertise in genetics and plant breeding, or PhD in plant breeding with a demonstrated focus on wheat rust resistance.
• Minimum of 5 years post-PhD experience in wheat rust research, with a proven record of scientific productivity, international leadership, and management of complex, multi-country research initiatives.
• Extensive experience in wheat rust epidemiology and global pathogen surveillance, combined with hands-on expertise in rust phenotyping under field and controlled (greenhouse) conditions.
• Strong expertise in molecular genetics, statistical analysis, and management of large genotype–phenotype datasets. Proficiency with analytical tools such as R, TASSEL, GAPIT, R/qtl, or equivalent platforms is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated commitment to scientific rigor and data-driven research, supported by a strong publication record in high-quality, peer-reviewed journals.
• Proven success in securing and managing competitive external research funding, with the ability to articulate scientific value and impact to donors and stakeholders.
• Strong leadership skills with experience managing interdisciplinary and multicultural teams, building consensus across international partnerships, and aligning wheat rust research with global food security priorities.
• Excellent written and oral English communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with scientific, donor, and policy audiences.
• Experience engaging with national programs, policymakers, or regional platforms to translate research outputs into adoption and impact.
The selected candidate must exhibit the following competencies: Critical Thinking and Creative Thinking, Communication, Teamwork, Client Orientation, Problem Solving and Decision Making, Negotiation and Conflict Resolution and Team Leadership.