International Specialist on Assisted Reproduction (embryo transfer)

Organizational Setting:

FAO Partnership and Liaison Office in Azerbaijan in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Azerbaijan is currently implementing “Improvement of Cattle Production in Azerbaijan through Establishment of Effective Cattle Breeding and Feeding Systems” project under FAO-Azerbaijan Partnership Programme. The main purpose of the project is the improvement of cattle productivity through establishment of an appropriate breeding management and strengthened services for AI, and feeding systems. In the framework of the project, embryo breeding is planned to be implemented at the Scientific-Research Institute of Animal Husbandry under Output 1: Capacities of professional inseminators and embryo transfer operators improved.

Reports to:

Mr. Bariz Mehdiyev , Assistant to the FAO Representative

Technical Focus:

Under the overall supervision of the AFAOR,(Assistant to FAO Representative) the technical supervision of the Lead Technical Officer (LTO) and the technical guidance of the of FAO Animal Production and Health Division (NSA) and in close coordination with the FAPP Manager; in liaison with the government focal points, the National Project Coordinator (NPC), Junior Technical Officer (JTO) and the International and National Consultants, the international consultant on assisted reproduction will undertake the following:

Tasks and Responsibilities

• Make a detailed assessment of the available equipment and current procedures (Standard Operations Procedure – SOP) for donor cows, embryo production and transfer, handling, and storage of semen, ova and embryos at the government Embryo Transfer (ET) Centre in Goygol, Azerbaijan;
• Identify gaps and needs in SOPs and equipment and provide detailed recommendations;
• Develop informative leaflets on ET process for distribution among farmers, private companies, etc.;
• Assess the skills and theoretical knowledge of the staff working at the ET Centre and identify needs for further training;
• Conduct ToT for selected specialists of the ET Centre;
• Recommend a quality control system and SOPs for the embryo production and processing;
• Prepare a concise mission report and training reports incorporating the findings, recommendations and training needs;
• Undertake any other relevant assignment requested.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements:

• University Degree in veterinary medicine, animal science with emphasis on cattle reproduction, particularly embryo transfer or other relevant field of expertise;
• At least 10 years of professional experience in embryo transfer production, processing, handling and storage at a recognized laboratory and/or breeding organization; At least five years of experience in training ET procedures, theoretical and practical knowledge being part of the 10 years of professional experience;
• Working knowledge of English.