Young Professional Officer (Agricultural Biotechnologies)
Organizational Context
The Office of Innovation (OIN) is a key FAO entity focused on providing strategic direction and driving innovation across the Organization. It aims to consolidate and strengthen FAO's innovative spirit, including new approaches and cooperation models. OIN supports Programme Priority Areas, ensuring innovation is mainstreamed in FAO programs, facilitating cross-collaboration among units, and fostering transformative partnerships. This position is based at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy.
Job Purpose
The Young Professional Officer (Agricultural Biotechnologies) will support the development and implementation of programs and activities focused on agricultural biotechnologies, contributing to agrifood systems transformation and food security. The role involves research, technical analysis, and project-related services to ensure the successful delivery of assigned projects, products, and services. Key functions include analyzing technical, social, economic, and environmental information, maintaining databases, providing technical project support, and contributing to the development of training materials and the organization of workshops and seminars. The incumbent will also participate in organizing meetings and consultations, producing necessary materials, and assisting partners.
Responsibilities
The Young Professional Officer will collate, review, and analyze information on agricultural biotechnologies and related initiatives globally, regionally, and nationally. They will support assessments of gaps, opportunities, and the scaling-up of biotechnological solutions aligned with FAO priorities. Responsibilities include assisting in the implementation of agricultural biotechnology projects and activities based on requests from regional and country offices, and monitoring and reporting on FAO's work in this area. The role also involves supporting resource mobilization by developing concept notes and project documents, and contributing to the organization of meetings, conferences, and workshops on science and innovation, particularly in agricultural biotechnologies. Furthermore, the incumbent will assist in preparing and disseminating FAO's messaging on priority areas through policy briefs and technical knowledge products, and help strengthen partnerships with national and international institutions on biotechnologies.
Work Experience
One year of relevant experience in agrifood biotechnologies programs and projects related to agrifood systems and food security is required. Experience in more than one work location or area, particularly in field positions, is beneficial. Understanding of policy and regulatory frameworks for agricultural biotechnologies, including biosafety and intellectual property, is also important.
Skills
Strong informatics skills in R, Stata, or Python, with experience in bioinformatics, big data analysis, and data visualization are required. Proven experience in scientific writing, including as a first author on peer-reviewed papers, is essential. Skills in science communication and stakeholder engagement, including translating complex biotechnology information for policymakers and the public, are necessary. Experience in preparing and editing technical/scientific documents, organizing meetings and workshops, and establishing partnerships with diverse institutions are highly valued. Working knowledge of another FAO official language is an asset.