[Hiring] Data Recording Specialist @Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)

Role Description

The Data Recording Specialist will provide technical support to strengthen pedigree development, performance recording, molecular characterization, and data management systems for endangered indigenous livestock breeds under the project.

• Assist in reviewing and assessing existing data recording systems for target breeds (Bactrian camel, Sarabi cattle, Mahabadi goat, Markhoz goat).
• Support the development of practical recommendations to strengthen breed registration, animal identification, pedigree recording, and performance data collection systems.
• Assist in preparing technical specifications and TOR/LOA inputs for contracting laboratories to conduct molecular analysis.
• Provide technical support in the evaluation of laboratory offers, ensuring compliance with required standards.
• Support development of sampling strategies, sample size determination, and data management procedures for molecular analysis.
• Assist in pedigree analysis, including estimation of inbreeding coefficients and identification of breeding strategies.
• Support identifying procurement needs and prepare technical specifications for equipment related to milk collection/analysis and wool/mohair processing centers.
• Assist in developing and delivering training materials and workshops for technicians and community-level recorders.
• Support preparation of technical reports summarizing findings, recommendations, and progress achieved.
• Perform other related duties as required by the project team.

Qualifications

• Advanced university degree in animal breeding and genetics, Molecular Genetics, Animal Biotechnology, Animal Science, Veterinary Genetics, or a closely related field.
• At least five (5) years of progressively relevant professional experience in livestock genetics data recording and analysis.
• Working knowledge (level C) of English.
• National of I.R. Iran or resident of the country with a valid work permit.

Requirements

• Strong knowledge of molecular genetics applications in livestock parentage verification and breed characterization.
• Familiarity with molecular marker technologies and interpretation of parentage testing results.
• Experience with DNA sample collection and laboratory coordination for molecular analysis.
• Knowledge of international standards for animal genetic resources conservation.
• Ability to advise on sampling strategies and data management for genetic studies.
• Good training, reporting, communication, and stakeholder coordination skills.
• Knowledge of indigenous livestock breeds and production systems in Northwest Iran is an asset.

Benefits

• Home-based position.
• Follow the UN workweek (from Sunday to Thursday) and holiday schedule.