The Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) is an international organisation with headquarters in Bogor, Indonesia and regional offices in Brazil, Cameroon and Zimbabwe. Established in 1993, CIFOR is committed to enhancing the benefit of forests for all people through research and capacity building. CIFOR's collaborative research, carried out in more than 30 countries with a range of partners, generates scientific knowledge which contributes towards better tropical forest conservation and management in developing countries. CIFOR is funded by over 30 governments and development assistance agencies, and employs 150 staff members.

Communications Specialist/Writer

CIFOR seeks a highly motivated and experienced Writer for its Communications Unit, based at its headquarters in Bogor. The incumbent will be a member of a small team which has the important task of disseminating the results of research by CIFOR and its partners to a wide-ranging audience of policy makers, opinion leaders and donors, as well as to the global forestry/environment community and the media. She/he will be assisted by a network of freelance writers, editors and designers.

The Writer will identify high interest stories from CIFOR's research and ensure that they are written in a range of styles and disseminated in a suitable format. She/he will be a self-starter, able to maintain the highest international standards for the Center's publications and web-site materials, including the annual report, the newsletter, brochures and posters.

The successful candidate will be fluent in English, with proven writing, editing and communication skills. She/he must be able to understand topical issues related to forestry and the environment, and be able to synthesize complex technical information and present it attractively for different audiences.

The candidate should have a degree in journalism, communications, or a related discipline, with a proven track record in environmental journalism, science writing and communications. Knowledge of French or Spanish is an advantage. Ability to function in a cross-cultural and multidisciplinary environment is essential.

CIFOR offers an internationally competitive compensation package, which includes housing, education support for dependants, and comprehensive healthcare coverage.

Applicants should send a letter of interest, curriculum vitae and the names of 3 references, by e-mail, fax or regular mail, to the address below. We will begin considering applications on 15 September 2001 until the position is filled. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

Michael Hailu

Director, Information Services Group

Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR)

mailing address: P.O. Box 6596 JKPWB, Jakarta, INDONESIA

office address: Jalan CIFOR, Situ Gede, Sindangbarang,

Bogor Barat 16680, INDONESIA

Tel: (62-251) 622 622 or 1-650-833-6665

Fax: (62-251) 622 100 or 1-650-833-6666

email: M.Hailu@cgiar.org