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 and environmental protection.

The Insect Pest Control Section and Laboratory assist Member States with the development, dissemination and transfer of sterile insect and related environmentally friendly technologies for the area-wide integrated suppression, containment or eradication of major insect pests affecting crops, livestock and human health.

Main Purpose

This consultancy aims to carry out introgression experiments for the transfer of black pupae mutation and genetic sexing properties in different populations and morphotypes of Anastrepha fraterculus species complex. This analysis is important as it will allow the development of genetic sexing strains for different morphotypes of the Anastrepha fraterculus species complex for sterile insect technique (SIT) applications against this major pest species.

Functions / Key Results Expected

– Carry out introgression experiments for the transfer of black pupae mutation and genetic sexing properties in different populations and morphotypes of Anastrepha fraterculus species complex.
– Conduct laboratory quality control of the strains of Anastrepha fraterculus produced.
– Carry out mating experiments between different populations and strains.
– Perform statistical analysis of crossing data.
– Prepare a report to describe work performed.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Required –

Skills and Expertise

•    Insect Pest Control

Assets –

Language Skills

•    English

Qualifications and Experience

• Advanced University Degree in Biological (or related) Sciences with an emphasis on insect pest species;
• Specialised knowledge and at least five years of experience required with (a) handling of SIT targeted insect pest species and (b) biology, ecology, and mating behaviour of tephritid fruit flies with an emphasis on Anastrepha species.

Remuneration

The remuneration for this consultancy is a daily fee of up to a maximum of € 333, 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.