About IRRI

Job Purpose

The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) is a globally renowned research organization dedicated to reducing poverty and hunger through rice science. As part of its mission, IRRI leads pioneering work on sustainable rice production technologies.
Two key programs in this effort are:

• Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) Consortium: A multi-stakeholder initiative focused on improving the environmental and socioeconomic sustainability of DSR through optimization of innovations, practices and methodologies to facilitate wide-scale adoption of DSR in Asia and the Pacific;
• OneRicePH Project: A strategic program aimed at strengthening the Philippines’ rice sector by integrating cutting-edge research, stakeholder engagement, and capacity-building efforts. The project emphasizes resilience, productivity, and
  food security through localized solutions and collaborative partnerships.

In parallel with these projects, IRRI is also increasingly leveraging Advanced Data Analytics including big data, predictive modeling/machine learning, geospatial, and scenario analysis–to drive evidence-based decision-making and refine best practices in rice production. By harnessing data-driven insights, IRRI can more effectively identify yield gaps, major key drivers of yield, and tailor agronomic recommendations to local conditions. Such evidence-based approaches are crucial for ensuring that innovations in direct-seeded rice and other sustainable practices are both scalable and responsive to the needs of farmers and policymakers. Thus, IRRI is seeking for an agronomist who will play a pivotal role in designing, implementing, and scaling agronomic innovations across the DSR Consortium and OneRicePH Project.

This role will involve leading advanced data analytics efforts to enhance research outcomes and guide strategic decisions; support for conducting on-station and on farm field experiments; organizing technology demonstrations and field days; and implementing capacity-building programs for farmers, extension workers, and partner organizations. The position also includes significant stakeholder engagement coordinating with government agencies, private sector collaborators, and farming communities to align research priorities, address emerging challenges, and ensure effective monitoring, evaluation, and impact assessment of project activities. Ideal candidates should have demonstrated experience and a proven track record in research and projects related to rice farming systems, crop management, sustainable agriculture, soil science, and climate change adaptation. A strong background in data analysis is essential, and the successful applicant will be expected to contribute in preparing high-quality scientific manuscripts and technical reports, and also represent IRRI at conferences, workshops, and professional gatherings to disseminate research outcomes and strengthen the institute’s global scientific leadership.

By fulfilling these functions, the Agronomist will be instrumental in advancing IRRI’s mission to develop and deploy sustainable solutions to improve farmers’ livelihoods, enhance food security, and environmental sustainability. Through the effective integration of agronomic innovation, technology scaling, and advanced data analytics, the successful candidate will help shape the future of rice production in the Philippines and beyond.

This position will be based at the IRRI Headquarters, Los Baños, Philippines and may only be filled by permanent citizens of the Philippines.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Design and conduct of on-station and on-farm experiments under the DSR Consortium and OneRicePH technology demonstration fields
• Planning and conduct of focus group discussions, field surveys, and farmer interviews, and synthesize findings into comprehensive reports
• Assist in implementation of other national and international projects as assigned by the supervisor
• Employ big data, predictive modeling/machine learning, and scenario analysis to identify yield gaps and optimize agronomic recommendations
• Translate analytical findings into clear and actionable insights for project teams and stakeholders
• Manage research data and ensure proper database organization for accuracy and accessibility
• Lead the design and generation of figures, graphs, maps, and other data visualization techniques in R Studio to effectively communicate research findings and insights.
• Contribute to the preparation of high-quality scientific publications and project technical reports
• Maintain rigorous standards in data collection, analysis, and reporting to uphold research quality and integrity
• Collaborate with government agencies, private sector partners, and farming communities to align project goals with national and regional priorities
• Engage with farmer-cooperators and LGU partners for effective and smooth project implementation
• Maintain active communication with internal and external project partners and collaborators to facilitate knowledge exchange and synergy among stakeholders
• Coordinate with other IRRI service units and departments to meet targets on schedule
• Strengthen local capacities of partners by providing technical expertise and project support
• Support in organizing workshops, training programs, farmers’ field days and forum, technical briefing, and technology demonstrations
• Supervise scholars, interns, and technicians
• Represent IRRI at conferences, workshops, and professional gatherings, sharing key findings from DSR and OneRicePH projects
• Oversee the planning and execution of field experiments (DSRC), technology demonstrations (OneRicePH), and field days to ensure timely and impactful delivery of research outputs.
• Contribute to the development of project timelines, milestones, and deliverables in coordination with project leads and collaborators
• Deliver significant contributions to the writing of reports, scientific papers, articles for DSRC and OneRicePH
• Maintain a reliable research database to ensure thorough and accurate documentation of all project data.
• Facilitate training for national research and extension service partners and other beneficiaries, strengthening their relevant skills and knowledge
• Communicate research findings and new ideas through peer-reviewed journals, mass media, and national or international scientific conferences

Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in Agronomy, Agricultural Sciences, Soil Science, Crop Physiology or related field and min. 3 years relevant work experience
• Ph.D. in Agronomy, Agricultural Sciences, Soil Science, Crop Physiology or related field and min. 1-year relevant work experience

Skills Required

Mandatory

• Experience working in the field of agricultural research and/or in international organizations
• Pro-active and independent way of working
• Has demonstrated research experience and analytical skills
• Experience in working with government institutions and farmer organizations
• Excellent oral and written skills in English including scientific writing as well as interpersonal skills

Preferred

• Relevant agronomic research experience (field trials and technology scaling)
• Has background in interpretable machine learning and advanced data analytics
• Has worked in international institute or government institution

IRRI offers a highly extensive employee benefits package inclusive of globally-covered medical insurance, retirement plan, life and accident insurance and other allowances.

Join our team and be part of our story!

Please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
This position will remain open until filled.