Economist, Rome Lazio

Economist, Rome
Roma
Lazio, Lazio

Job Title: Economist (iSMART) The Economist reports to the Senior Economist (iSMART), ESA, under the overall supervision of the Director, ESA. He/she will also be reporting, through ESA Management, to technical cooperation units as well as donors funding the programme. Technical Focus The Economist will specialize in integrating risk analysis, econometric modelling, and impact evaluations and the study of agrifood value chains. This intricate role calls for a robust, comprehensive understanding of the agrifood sector, augmented by strong quantitative and analytical abilities to propel innovative economic research, policy formulation, and strategic planning. In developing countries, the incumbent will be tasked with complex economic situations, applying state-of-the-art econometric techniques and models, leveraging different data sources (surveys, remote-sensing, big data, and machine-learning derived) to illuminate trends, risks, and opportunities present within the agrifood sector. Tasks and Responsibilities Using Econometrics and Modelling Tools: Examine aspects related to risk, resilience, food security, and rural poverty in developing countries' agrifood systems. Economic Research and Analysis: Conduct research and analysis on economic issues, trends, and policies. Utilize quantitative research methods to gather and interpret data. Model Development and Data Analysis: Prepare and update the country situation analysis report of FAO member countries by identifying and compiling relevant data and preparing data tables, charts, and analysis as essential input to the report. Create robust economic models to better understand current economic patterns and dynamics. Policy Analysis and Development: Assess existing agrifood policies and provide valuable contributions towards suggesting enhancements, grounded in sound economic theories and evidence-based research findings. Advisory: Provide advice and recommendations to policymakers, businesses, and other stakeholders based on research findings. Risk and Uncertainty Analysis: Assess the risks and uncertainties faced by agrifood systems in developing countries, such as natural disasters, price and market crises, and policy fluctuations. Food Security Analysis: Assess the factors influencing food security in FAO member countries, including access to nutritious and affordable food, agricultural productivity, value chain efficiency, and policy frameworks. Value Chain Development in Developing Countries: Analyse value chains in developing countries to identify opportunities for upgrading, diversification, and inclusion of smallholder farmers and marginalized actors. Investment Prioritization in Selected Territories: Employ quantitative analysis to aid in discerning and selecting the most strategic and impactful investment opportunities within specified territories. These expanded functions emphasize the importance of addressing risks and uncertainties, building resilience, tackling rural poverty, and improving food security within the context of developing countries. The iSMART team plays a crucial role in conducting economic analysis, providing evidence-based insights, and developing policies and interventions to address these challenges and promote sustainable and inclusive agrifood systems in these regions. Candidates Will Be Assessed Against the Following Advanced university degree in economics, econometrics, agricultural economics, development economics, statistics, mathematics, or a related field. At least one year of relevant experience for Category C, five years for Category B, and ten years for Category A in economic quantitative analysis of agrifood systems. Working knowledge (full proficiency, level C) of English. FAO Core Competencies Technical/Functional Skills Extent and relevance of experience in applied research in the field of risk and agrifood systems. Extent and relevance of experience in economic and policy analysis of issues in agrifood systems and food security. Extent and relevant experience and knowledge of the main data sources for analysing agrifood systems. Extent and relevance of experience in conducting quantitative economic analysis, economic modelling, and applying econometric techniques. Quality of both oral and written communication in English. Demonstrated ability to manage, analyse, and present quantitative information clearly and effectively. Proficiency in using statistical software, especially R, SPSS, STATA or similar software. Capacity to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams with minimal supervision. Selection Criteria Intermediate proficiency (level B) of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish) is a plus. Please note that all candidates should adhere to FAO Values of Commitment to FAO, Respect for All, and Integrity and Transparency. Additional Information FAO does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process. FAO will only consider academic credentials or degrees obtained from recognized institutions. Appointment will be subject to certification of medical fitness, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security clearances. Please note that if you are NOT a passport holder of the country for the vacancy you might need a work permit. J-18808-Ljbffr