Economist

The Economist will specialize in integrating risk analysis, econometric modelling 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 on different data sources (surveys, remote-sensing, big data, and machine-learning derived) to illuminate trends, risks, and opportunities present within the agrifood sector. This complex task involves a deep exploration of agrifood value chains, which in developing regions often pose unique challenges due to various economic, social, and environmental factors.

Tasks and responsibilities

• Using econometrics and modelling tools, the Economist will examine aspects related to risk, resilience, food security, and rural poverty in developing countries’ agrifood systems. This role aims to shape policies enhancing the agrifood system resilience, boosting food security, and alleviating rural and urban poverty.
• Economic Research and Analysis: Conducting research and analysis on economic issues, trends, and policies. Utilizing quantitative research methods to gather and interpret data.
• Model Development and Data Analysis: Creating robust economic models to better understand current economic patterns and dynamics. Utilizing statistical software for comprehensive data analysis and interpretation, thereby unveiling significant economic indicators and relationships. Model Development and Data Analysis: Developing economic models to predict future economic trends. Using statistical software for data analysis and interpretation.
• Policy Analysis and Development: Assessing existing agrifood policies and providing valuable contributions towards suggesting enhancements, grounded in sound economic theories and evidence-based research findings.
• Advisory: Providing advice and recommendations to policymakers, businesses, and other stakeholders based on research findings.•    Risk and Uncertainty Analysis: In the context of the SMART team, assessing the risks and uncertainties faced by agrifood systems in developing countries, such as natural disasters, price and market crises and policy fluctuations. Conducting economic analysis to understand the potential impacts and develop strategies to manage and mitigate these risks.
• Food Security Analysis: Assessing the factors influencing food security in FAO member countries, including access to nutritious and affordable food, agricultural productivity, value chain efficiency, and policy frameworks. Conducting economic analysis to inform policies and interventions that enhance food security and reduce hunger and malnutrition.
• Value Chain Development in Developing Countries: Analysing value chains in developing countries to identify opportunities for upgrading, diversification, and inclusion of smallholder farmers and marginalized actors. Developing economic models and strategies to enhance value chain efficiency, market access, and income generation for actors along the value chain.
• 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 SMART 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

Minimum Requirements

• Advanced university degree in economics, econometrics, agricultural economics, development economics, or a related field.
• One year of relevant experience in economic quantitative analysis of agrifood system, including experience with advanced econometric models, management of large datasets, research on food security and rural poverty, resilience and vulnerability, and practical application in policy formulation and strategic investment prioritization within the agrifood sector, particularly in developing countries.
• Working knowledge (level C) of English and limited knowledge (level B) of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish).

Source: https://jobs.fao.org/careersection/fao_external/jobdetail.ftl?job=2401292