About IRRI

The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) is dedicated to reducing poverty and hunger through rice science; improving the health and welfare of rice farmers and consumers; and protecting the rice-growing environment for future generations.

IRRI is an independent, nonprofit, research and educational institute, founded in 1960 by the Ford and Rockefeller foundations with support from the Philippine government. The institute, headquartered in Los Baños, Philippines, has offices in 17 rice-growing countries in Asia and Africa, and over 1,000 staff.

Working with in-country partners, IRRI develops advanced rice varieties that yield more grain and better withstand pests and disease as well as flooding, drought, and other harmful effects of climate change.

Job Purpose

India is an important country of focus in the South Asia region with an ongoing need to manage linkages and establish partnerships with government agencies, NARES partners and other collaborators to develop and implement research and development opportunities within the country.

This job assignment will provide strategic guidance for planning, organizing and facilitating bilateral work plan meetings and other IRRI programs and activities in the country.

Under the minimal direction of the IRRI India representatives (Asia Director, ISARC Director and CSSM), establish and manage linkages and partnerships with government agencies, NARES partners and other collaborators to develop and implement research and development opportunities within the country.

Develop and monitor the bilateral country strategy and work plan. Monitor on-going collaborative projects and facilitate the acceleration of research impacts.

IRRI with the support of the Government of India, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare has established IRRI-South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC) in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.

The ISARC is a regional facility that supports research collaboration, training, and service provision to institutions, scientists, farmers, and other stakeholders from India and other South Asian and African nations.

The state-of-the-art rice research center catalyzes South-South collaboration, strengthens research and capacity development of rice-growing countries in the South Asia and Africa regions, and contributes towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals 2030.

This position is based at Delhi and must only be filled by the permanent residents of India.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Support the IRRI India Representative and the Director of ISARC in planning, organizing and facilitating country work plan meetings, ISARC Coordination Committee meeting, high profile events and other IRRI programs and activities
• Develop the bilateral country work plan for the Country Office in close coordination with IRRI Representative, IRRI Scientists, Project Managers, project partners, government institutions and donors
• Monitor the implementation of the bilateral country plan
• Consult and communicate closely with national agricultural research and extension services (NARES) for administration and execution of collaborative projects
• Liaise with MEA & FRRO on issues pertaining to IRRI’s host country agreement and international status and provide support on registration, visa extension, vehicle approval & registration, etc.