Consultant - Micropropagation and Mutagenesis of Root Crops (Taro and Cassava)

Organizational Setting

The Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications implements the IAEA's Major Programme 2, "Nuclear Techniques for Development and Environmental Protection". This Major Programme comprises individual programmes on food and agriculture, human health, water resources, environment and radiation technologies. These programmes are supported by laboratories in Seibersdorf, Monaco and Vienna. The Major Programme's objective is to enhance the capacity of Member States to meet basic human needs and to assess and manage the marine and terrestrial environments through the use of nuclear and isotopic techniques in sustainable development programmes. 

The Joint FAO/IAEA Centre of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture assists Member States of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the IAEA in using nuclear techniques and related technologies to improve food security, alleviate poverty and promote sustainable agriculture. The Joint Centre consists of five Sections, each with an associated laboratory (located in Seibersdorf, 45 km south-east of Vienna), in the areas of\: animal production and health; plant breeding and genetics; insect pest control; soil and water management and crop nutrition; and food safety and control.
 

The Plant Breeding and Genetics Section and Laboratory assist Member States with the development of mutation induction methodologies and integrated applications of mutation breeding techniques for crop improvement and biodiversity, contributing to the sustainable intensification of crop production systems. 
 

Main Purpose

To enhance the capabilities of Member States in root crop improvement, this consultancy will generate clear, step-by-
step guidelines for material preparation and handling, spanning in vitro propagation, multiplication, and readiness
for irradiation of root crops. These practical guidelines will empower Member States to streamline their processes
and facilitate access to essential irradiation services from the IAEA or other institutions. A key outcome will also be
the development of specialized induced mutagenesis protocols for taro and cassava, fostering genetic diversity.

Functions / Key Results Expected

• Provide technical expertise in establishing a protocol for in vitro culture of root crops (cassava and taro), or
  similar approach.

• Carry out radiosensitivity test to determine the adequate dose for mutation induction in root crops (cassava
  and taro).

• Provide expertise in elaborating guidelines for material preparation and handling, spanning in vitro
  propagation multiplication, and readiness for irradiation of in vitro propagated crops. The guidelines should
  contain a step-by-step description of the processes and contain clear but simple instructions to facilitate
  access to essential irradiation services from the IAEA or other institutions.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Plant Breeding and Genetics

Qualifications and Experience

•  University degree (bachelor) in Biology, Plant Sciences, Food Science, Industrial/Biological Engineering, or related disciplines.

• Good experience on in vitro culture of root crops considering adequate phytosanitary and quality
  standards.

• Minimum two years of experience in plant biotechnology, breeding and/or genetics.

• First author publications on related topics would be an asset.

• Good oral and written command of English. Knowledge of other official IAEA languages (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian and Spanish) is an asset.

   

Remuneration

The remuneration for this consultancy is a daily fee of up to a maximum of € 200, based on qualifications and experience. In case duty travel is required within the assignment, a daily subsistence allowance (DSA) and travel costs are provided. Health coverage and pension fund are the responsibility of the incumbent.