Project Officer Consultant – Seed System Assessment

About the role

The Project Officer Consultant will support national partners in Syria to assess seed system security, design emergency seed assistance, and strengthen early‑generation seed (EGS) supply for priority cereals and legumes. Working closely with the General Organization for Seed Multiplication (GOSM), the General Commission for Scientific Agricultural Research (GCSAR), and ICARDA, the consultant will provide technical and implementation support across Aleppo, Hama, Homs, and Idlib.

Key responsibilities

• Design and digitise the needs‑assessment questionnaire and related data‑collection tools.
• Develop the assessment methodology, sampling plan, and conduct rapid seed system security assessments.
• Compile an inventory of recently released climate‑resilient Syrian crop varieties and verify seed‑production site compliance.
• Coordinate technical activities to secure breeder and pre‑basic seed, and plan EGS multiplication with partner stations.
• Provide technical oversight and documentation for EGS production steps, including nucleus material handling, breeder seed production, and basic seed planning.

Required profile

• Relevant academic background in agricultural sciences, plant breeding, or related fields.
• Experience working with seed systems, crop variety inventories, or agricultural research projects.
• Proven ability to work in conflict‑affected or emergency contexts.
• Strong coordination skills with national research institutions and NGOs.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to contribute to food security and agricultural resilience in Syria.
• Collaboration with leading international research organization (ICARDA) and national partners.
• Exposure to emergency agricultural programming and seed system strengthening.