Permanent Full-time Scientific Position - Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech - Field: Agroecological Transition

The job of first assistant is available in the subject area of Agroecological Transition within the single

Department in the Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech Faculty.

The development of new, more sustainable approaches to food production is a key challenge of the 21st century. The current context, marked by multiple crises, requires us to identify and design innovative production systems and to contribute towards the transition to (re)regionalised, localised and globally more sustainable systems.

Under the general theme of Agroecological Transition, research will therefore be focussed on an in-depth technical study of the evolution of regional practices and a cross-cutting analysis of the (un)locking mechanisms which facilitate or hinder their implementation. A multi-disciplinary approach is required, notably in partnership with teams of social scientists.

TEACHING ACTIVITIES

The teaching activities will be structured around the objective of supporting the information taught within the Master’s in Bioengineering in Agronomic Sciences and the Masters in Agroecology. Using active techniques (flipped classroom, field visits, etc.), teaching will consist more specifically of participating in the development of the technical part of the cross-cutting analysis of agricultural systems and their transition towards agroecological configurations. The applicants will then take an active part in classes such as Introduction to agroecology (3 ECTS); Supporting the transition towards agroecology (5 ECTS); Research project combined with final dissertation (4 ECTS); Agroecological protection of agricultural production systems (2 ECTS): and Agroecological controversies (3 ECTS), all taught at the Gembloux campus or at Arlon.

RESEARCH ACTIVITIES

In collaboration with other researchers, the applicant will develop their research activities on the agroecological transition of food systems in the regions. They will propose an interdisciplinary research plan enabling them to apply their expertise to the theme covered by this position. Their research activities will thus cover the different aspects of the transition (evolution and transformation), their evaluation, and their integration into regional food systems in Wallonia but also in other biophysical contexts.

SERVICES TO THE COMMUNITY

Working with the Faculty authorities, the applicant will be involved in services to the community provided by Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech and the University of Liège, particularly within the governing bodies of the Master’s in Agroecology (Study Council, Management Committee, Admission Jury, Final Dissertation Jury).

The person who is recruited will act as the point of contact between the various courses in the Faculty addressing aspects of agroecology, to encourage joined-up working.
They will also participate in the academic life of the Faculty of Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech while remaining attentive to social expectations in their field of activity.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED / PROFILE

• Hold a Master’s degree and a research doctorate on the subject of agroecology (engineering, agronomy, ecology, geography, etc.) with post-doctoral experience in the relevant field;
• Demonstrate recognised scientific experience both in the field and through international publications in the relevant subject area (Having conducted a scientific study visit abroad lasting at least six months is an advantage);
• Teaching experience in the relevant field is a plus;
• Demonstrate interdisciplinary research skills through publications, projects and scientific networks;
• Be able to work in a team and with shared human and material resources within the Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech facilities and to lead joint projects with the Arlon Campus (ULiège);
• Be available for various roles relating to services to the community and raising public awareness;
• Master English and French;
• Be available to carry out missions abroad;
• Subscribe to the general quality objectives that the University and Faculty develop;
• Upon recruitment, sign an agreement regarding ownership of research results.

SELECTION PROCEDURE

Each application will be examined by a Faculty committee responsible for selecting applicants for interview. This committee will justify its decisions by referring to this job vacancy announcement and the qualifications and skills of the applicants. The Faculty committee will then interview the applicants, focussing on the applicant’s CV, their teaching and research plans, their integration into the University and their French and English language skills.

Our institutional policy is based on diversity and equal opportunity. We select candidates based on their qualities and regardless of their age, sexual orientation, origin, beliefs, disability or nationality.

APPLICATIONS

Applications should be made using an on-line form available at:

https://my.uliege.be/portail/go_xt.do?a=o%7C11004%7Ce%7C540563 no later than 15/07/2023 (before midnight Belgian time). Late applications may be refused.

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED

• Cover letter;
• Curriculum vitae (download template HERE or use own format);
• A copy of the most representative publications (max. 5);
• Report on prior and current teaching and research activities (5 pages max.);
• Research plan, including planned integration into the University of Liège (5 pages max.);  Teaching plan (5 pages max.);
• Plan for developing services to the community (2 pages max.).

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

The position is awarded either for a fixed term of four years maximum or immediately on a permanent basis.

In the event of appointment for a fixed term, an evaluation will take place after the third year.

• If the evaluation is negative, the individual’s contract will be terminated at the end of the fourth year; 
• If the evaluation is positive, the individual will be appointed on a permanent basis.

INFORMATION

Further information may be obtained from: Mr Frédéric FRANCIS, Dean of the Faculty of Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, only at the following e-mail address decanat.gembloux@uliege.be

REMUNERATION

The salary grids and their rules of application are available from the Human Resources department of the University: Ms Ludivine DEPAS– tel.: +32 (0)4 366 52 04 – Ludivine.Depas@uliege.be