CIMMYT is a cutting edge, non-profit, international organization dedicated to solving tomorrow's problems today. It is entrusted with fostering improved quantity, quality, and dependability of production systems and basic cereals such as maize, wheat, triticale, sorghum, millets, and associated crops through applied agricultural science, particularly in the Global South, through building strong partnerships. This combination enhances the livelihood trajectories and resilience of millions of resource-poor farmers, while working towards a more productive, inclusive, and resilient agrifood system within planetary boundaries. For more information, visit cimmyt.org.

Shape the Future of Agriculture: Become CIMMYT’s Next Genetic Resources Program (GRP) Director

Are you a visionary leader with a passion for harnessing genetic resources to drive innovation in global agriculture? Do you have the strategic foresight, scientific expertise, and leadership acumen to shape the future of genetic resource utilization for sustainable food systems? If so, CIMMYT invites you to lead its Genetic Resources Program (GRP) as its next Program Director.

In this role, you will lead a globally recognized program dedicated to the conservation, enhancement, and effective utilization of genetic resources. You will drive innovation in genetic resource management, strengthening agricultural resilience and productivity while addressing both technical and organizational challenges. This position requires a dynamic leader with the expertise to advance genebank science, biometrics and quantitative genetics, data science, seed health, trait discovery, and precision genetics, while reporting to the Chief Science and Innovation Officer.

Based at our headquarters in Texcoco, Mexico, you will:

Catalyze Research and Innovation Through Visionary Leadership:

Set a Bold Scientific Vision: Define and execute a forward-thinking strategy for the Genetic Resources Program, ensuring alignment with CIMMYT’s Excellence in Science and Innovation objectives. Advance Genetic Research: Lead cutting-edge research in genetic conservation, trait discovery, and applied genetics, enhancing agricultural resilience and productivity. Integrate Emerging Technologies: Harness data science, biometrics, and quantitative genetics, and precision genetics to position CIMMYT as a global leader in genetic innovation.

Build Strategic Partnerships and Global Influence:

Strengthen CIMMYT’s Global Presence: Advocate for CIMMYT’s research agenda in international forums, influencing policies and collaborations at the highest levels. Expand Collaborative Networks: Develop partnerships with CGIAR centers, National Agricultural Research Systems, universities, and private sector players to drive collective impact. Enhance Research Visibility: Engage with key stakeholders to promote CIMMYT’s scientific outputs, securing its role as a leader in genetic resource management.

Ensure Sustainable Growth and Talent Development:

Secure Funding and Resources: Lead fundraising efforts, securing sustainable financial support through grants, institutional partnerships, and donor engagement. Inspire and Develop Talent: Mentor and lead a multidisciplinary team, fostering a high-performance culture that supports scientific excellence and professional growth. Drive Operational Excellence: Oversee budgeting, resource allocation, and compliance with international treaties, ensuring responsible research and long-term sustainability.