Program Director - Feed the Future Innovation Lab - CRCIL

About This Role

Kansas State University’s College of Agriculture seeks a highly qualified Program Director to lead the Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Climate Resilient Cereals (CRCIL). This role involves overseeing a team within the Dean’s Office and managing international research collaborations aimed at enhancing climate-resilient cereal breeding systems. The Director will be responsible for driving CRCIL’s mission in alignment with USAID’s Climate Resilient Cereal Strategic Framework. In addition to leading scientific research, the Director will oversee capacity-building initiatives, resource mobilization, and stakeholder coordination to further CRCIL’s objectives.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Ensure CRCIL’s research and engagement outcomes align with its mission.
• Serve as USAID’s principal contact for the program.
• Represent CRCIL publicly to the U.S. Government, research communities, and stakeholders.
• Oversee program planning, activity coordination, reporting, and evaluation.
• Facilitate cross-learning and collaboration between internal and external partners.
• Manage integration of Associate Awards and buy-ins into the broader Innovation Lab.

About Us

In September 2023, Kansas State University was selected by USAID as the Management Entity (ME) for CRCIL. CRCIL’s mission is to advance climate-resilient cereal breeding systems across Feed the Future countries, leveraging cutting-edge agricultural science to address local needs and preferences. Research focuses on enhancing germplasm for sorghum, millet, wheat, and rice in target countries: Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Haiti, and Senegal. Key areas of scientific inquiry include allele discovery, validation, and integration into elite breeding materials. For further information, visit https://www.k-state.edu/crcil/

Worksite Option

This position is required to be performed on-site. Work is performed on employer premises or designated assignment location.

What You'll Need to Succeed

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in a field relevant to international cereal crops research.
• 10 years of technical expertise in international agricultural research.
• Proven experience managing research partnerships across international, national, and local levels.
• Demonstrated ability to integrate gender, social sciences, environmental, and nutritional considerations into research.
• Strong organizational, data management, and program evaluation skills.
• Exceptional oral and written communication skills in English.
• Proficiency in MS Office and related software.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced research and outreach environment and provide innovative problem-solving.
• Commitment to fostering diversity and teamwork.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 15 years of technical expertise in international agricultural research.
• Experience in grant proposal writing.
• Over 10 years of leadership experience managing interdisciplinary projects.

Other Requirements:

• Preference will be given to applicants who are currently authorized to work in the United States.
• Some international travel is required

How to Apply

Please submit the following documents:

1. Letter of interest
2. Current Resume or CV
3. Phone numbers and email addresses for three professional references

For questions, contact Dena Bunnel, Associate Director of Research and International Initiatives, denab@ksu.edu

Screening of Applications Begins

Screening of applications begins December 1, 2024. Preferred apply by date is January 6, 2025.  Position is open until filled.

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

Commensurate with experience, education and training.

ACADEMIC RANK: A faculty appointment in a relevant department may be available. Rank will be commensurate with credentials and experience.