Organization
NAFA-Insect Pest Control Laboratory
Primary Location
Austria-Lower Austria-Seibersdorf-IAEA Laboratories in Seibersdorf
Contract Details
Duration: 36 months
Contract Type: Fixed Term - Regular
Main Purpose
Under the supervision of the Medical Entomologist, the Entomologist (Human Disease Vectors) formulates and implements research and development activities in relation to the development of the SIT (Sterile Insect Technique) package for human disease vectors, and assists with the transfer of these technologies to Member States.
Role Summary
The Entomologist (Human Disease Vectors) is: (1) a contributor to the development of the SIT package for HDVs (Human Disease Vectors) through research activities at the Insect Pest Control Laboratory (IPCL) and through Coordinated Research Projects; (2) a technical officer who provides technical guidance to the IAEA TC Programme to transfer and validate the technologies related to the SIT for HDVs to Member States; (3) a project officer of coordinated research projects; (4) a trainer and provider of technical support to fellows, visiting scientists, interns etc.; (5) a contributor to normative activities such as development of protocols, manuals, guidelines, etc.
Functions / Key Results Expected
Develop, adapt and validate technologies related to the control of HDVs in the context of area‑wide integrated pest management programmes that incorporate the SIT and, in alignment with the FAO and IAEA programmes and the identified needs of Member States, provide recommendations and advice on the transfer and implementation of these technologies to Member States.
Develop and introduce innovative R&D approaches to the development and implementation of the SIT package for HDVs at the Insect Pest Control Laboratory.
Be responsible for the coordination and implementation of national, regional and interregional projects under the IAEA technical cooperation programme.
Promote, coordinate and evaluate CRPs related to the development of the SIT package for HDVs.
Provide technical support and guidance to visiting scientists, fellows and collaborators from national, regional and international research institutes who will be hosted at the IPCL to conduct R&D in support of the SIT for HDVs, such as design experiments and develop protocols.
Provide input and evaluation to the development of manuals, guidelines, books, brochures, standard operating procedures on various aspects of SIT for HDVs in the context of area‑wide integrated pest management. Contribute input on annual reports, newsletters, and external and internal subprogrammes.
Key Competencies
Analytical thinking : Analyzes information to identify cause and effect relationships and correlations. Identifies critical elements and assesses consequences of different courses of action and proposes solutions.
Knowledge sharing and learning : Actively seeks learning opportunities and actively shares knowledge and information with others; shares specialized knowledge, skills and learning from experience across different situations and contexts effectively.
Technical/scientific credibility : Ensures that work is in compliance with internationally accepted professional standards and scientific methods. Provides scientifically/technically accepted information that is credible and reliable.
Required Expertise
Extensive experience on mass‑rearing techniques of Human Disease Vectors with focus in Aedes and Anopheles mosquitoes, including quality control management.
Experience in mosquito radiation protocols and radiation dosimetry for insect irradiation.
Working knowledge in the field application of the sterile insect technique for mosquito management, including handling, release, trapping and monitoring of sterile male mosquitoes.
Qualifications, Experience and Language Skills
Bachelor's Degree – Degree in medical entomology or related biological sciences.
Advanced university degree is an asset.
At least 5 years of working experience with R&D related to the SIT for HDVs (and/or other related pests). Working experience in an international setting would be a strong asset, such as practical field experience in transferring technologies related to the SIT for human disease vector in developing countries.
Thorough technical knowledge of the biology of HDVs including mass‑rearing techniques, insect quality control management, radiation protocols, handling, release methods, insect behavioural studies, trapping and monitoring and the validation of genetic sexing strains.
In‑depth knowledge of SIT principles and practice supplemented by an awareness of the fundamental role of area‑wide integrated approaches to controlling HDVs. Awareness of relevant FAO and IAEA mechanisms and procedures, including the implementation of CRPs and TC projects an asset.
Excellent oral and written command of English. Knowledge of other official IAEA languages (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and Spanish) is an asset.
The IAEA's paramount consideration in the recruitment of staff member is to secure employees of the highest standards of efficiency, technical competence and integrity.
Staff Members shall be selected without any unfair treatment or arbitrary distinction based on a person's race, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, disability, age, language, social origin or other similar shared characteristic or trait.
The IAEA is committed to gender equality and to promoting a diverse workforce. Applications from qualified women and candidates from developing countries are strongly encouraged.
Applicants should be aware that IAEA staff members are international civil servants and may not accept instructions from any other authority. The IAEA is committed to applying the highest ethical standards in carrying out its mandate. As part of the United Nations common system, the IAEA subscribes to the following core ethical standards (or values): Integrity, Professionalism and Respect for diversity.
The IAEA has a zero‑tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and the IAEA, including sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination.
Evaluation Process
The evaluation of applicants will be conducted on the basis of the information submitted in the application according to the selection criteria stated in the vacancy announcement. Applicants must provide complete and accurate information. Evaluation of qualified candidates may include an assessment exercise, which may be followed by a competency‑based interview.
Candidates under serious consideration for selection may be subject to reference and background checks as part of the recruitment process.
Appointment Information
Appointment is subject to a satisfactory medical report.
Staff members may be assigned to any location.
Candidates appointed to posts in the Professional and higher categories are subject to IAEA rotation policy and their maximum tour of service shall normally be seven years.
The IAEA retains the discretion not to make any appointment to this vacancy, to make an appointment at a lower grade or with a different contract type, or to make an appointment with a modified job description or for shorter duration than indicated above.
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