National Analytical Chemist - Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations - Yerevan

JOB DESCRIPTION:
Under the overall supervision of the Sub-Regional Representative for Central and Eastern Europe (SEUD) and under the direct supervision of the Chief Technical Advisor (CTA) assisted by the National Project Coordinator, and in close collaboration with the national staff of both laboratories, the incumbent will contribute to building necessary analytical capacities, training of staff and organization of the laboratory management. S/he will be involved in activities related to pesticide formulation control, pesticide residue analysis, toxicological analysis, quality assurance activities and preparation for accreditation of laboratories.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Prepare English and Armenian training material for the staff and management training courses;
- Assist in or conduct analytical and quality assurance training courses for the staff;
- Analyze samples from various sources to provide information on compounds or quantities of compounds present;
- Use analytical techniques and instrumentation, such as gas and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), various MS-techniques, ion chromatography, spectroscopy (infrared and ultraviolet, amongst others), and ELISA techniques;
- Interpret data and adhere to strict guidelines on documentation when recording data;
- Report scientific results;
- Use a range of analytical software;
- Develop/ introduce new techniques for the analysis of drug or pesticide products;
- Work collaboratively in cross-functional teams;
- Assist in maintaining laboratory equipment;
- Assist in preparing the quality system documentation required for accreditation of the labs;
- Use the internet and email for scientific research or exchange of information;
- Study international laboratory accreditation requirements and organize internal audits;
- Be aware of, and keeping up to date with, health and safety issues in all aspects of the work undertaken and the respective work environment;
- Assist as may be required in other matters related to the project.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- University degree (MS and PhD) in food chemistry, analytical chemistry or related field with excellent practical skills and experience in modern analytical techniques including GC-MS and LC-MS;
- Effective team working abilities and presentation skills, and ability to convey technical information to colleagues and possibly non-technical superiors;
- Fluency in English and Armenian languages is important, Russian is of additional advantage (in exceptional cases Russian may replace Armenian language skills).

APPLICATION PROCEDURES:
Applications in English can be submitted through: FAO-AM@fao.org with copy to: Klaus.Ziller@fao.org or hard copies of applications can be delivered to the FAO Representation Office in Armenia (Governmental Building #3, Ministry of Agriculture, 1st floor, Room #105) to the attention of Ms Gayane Nasoyan, FAO Assistant Representative for Armenia.

Applications will be considered only if accompanied by an updated CV, letter of motivation and copies of diploma(s) "Master or PhD" and prove of practical experience in the analytical techniques indicated above. The evaluation of the applications will be strictly based on qualifications; the project will not fill the position if no qualifying applications are received.