The Africa Rice Center is seeking a GIS specialist to map inland valleys in West Africa. The specialist will develop an algorithm to map inland valleys using digital elevation models, test and validate the algorithm using existing data sets, provide statistical proof of the algorithm's accuracy, train Africa Rice staff, and prepare technical reports. The expected time frame is November 2013 through April 2014. Qualified candidates should have a master's degree in geoinformation sciences, GIS/remote sensing experience, proficiency in ArcGIS and modeling languages, and a strong publication record.

1. 1
CONSULTANCY OFFER
GIS specialist ‐ mapping of inland valleys systems
in West‐Africa
Ref: CONS/01/RD/2013/09
The Africa Rice Center (AfricaRice) is seeking a highly qualified GIS specialist ‐ mapping of
inland valleys systems in West‐Africa to be based at AfricaRice, Cotonou
About AfricaRice
AfricaRice is one of the 15 international agricultural research Centers that are members of the
CGIAR Consortium. It is also an autonomous intergovernmental association of African
member countries.
Responsibilities
Under the immediate supervision of the Remote Sensing and GIS Specialist, the consultant is
part of a multi‐disciplinary research team working to sustain and improve the productivity of
rice‐based systems in Africa in line with AfricaRice’s mission and mandate.
S/he is expected to:
 Develop an algorithm that allows mapping of inland valleys using digital elevation
models (DEMs);
 Test and validate the algorithm using existing data sets of digitized inland valleys for
Mali, Burkina Faso, Togo and Benin;
 Provide statistical proof on the accuracy of the algorithm applied for Aster and SRTM
DEMs;
 Submit a manuscript on the methodology and its validation in West‐Africa to an
international peer‐review journal (in collaboration with AfricaRice staff);
 Train AfricaRice staff on the application of the algorithm and provide data handover;
 Prepare a technical reference report on the algorithm and its application.
Expected time frame

2013 2014
Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr
Mode enhancement, testing and (statistical)
validation
Preparation and of a manuscript
Training of AfricaRice staff on the algorithm
Preparation of technical document
Qualifications/Selection Criteria
Education: minimum level of Master in Geoinformation Sciences or related subjects.
Work Experience: proven working experience in the domain of GIS/remote sensing related to
agricultural applications.

2. 2
Key Competencies required: highly proficient in ArcGIS and modeling languages like Python,
R, IDL, etc.; strong background in spatial statistics; good scientific publication record.
Language
Fluency (orally and in writing) in either English or French is required.
To apply for this position, please send your applications:
To: AfricaRice‐HR@cgiar.org with the vacancy reference in subject: CONS/01/RD/2013/09
Or to the following address: Head, Human Resources Unit, AfricaRice, 01 B.P. 2031,
Cotonou, Benin Republic
Applications will be considered until Friday, October 18, 2013.
AfricaRice is an equal opportunity employer. AfricaRice believes that staff diversity
promotes excellence in its operations and particularly welcomes applications from women
and developing countries.
AfricaRice thanks all applicants but only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
To learn more about AfricaRice, please visit our website at
www.AfricaRice.org