The International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) is a renowned pan-African Centre of excellence dedicated to research for development and capacity building in insect science and its related applications. Founded in 1970, icipe has become a crucial force in tackling the pressing food, nutrition, health, and environmental challenges faced by sub-Saharan Africa.
With a focus on eco-friendly solutions, icipe develops and disseminates innovative technologies for pest and vector control, promotes the conservation of natural ecosystems, and provides sustainable alternatives that enhance livelihoods. Headquartered at the Duduville Campus in Nairobi, Kenya, the Centre’s influence spans over 40 African countries and extends through strong partnerships with academic and research institutions globally.
The Centre currently employs more than 500 international and national staff and hosts approximately 150 graduate students annually, all contributing to its world-class research portfolio. For more information about the organization’s mission and impact, visit: www.icipe.org. To better understand the Centre’s strategic focus, you may also refer to icipe’s Vision and Strategy 2021–2025 here.
Vacancy Announcement: Business Support Assistant II (Animator)
Ref. No.: NRS/654/032025
Location: Duduville Campus, Nairobi, Kenya
Program: Biodiversity & Environment Thematic Research Programme (TRP)
Contract Type: One-year contract (renewable based on performance, continued need, and funding availability)
Recruitment Type: National
Application Deadline: 9th April 2025
icipe is seeking a dynamic and creative professional to fill the position of Business Support Assistant II (Animator). The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in the Insects for Food, Feed and Other Uses (INSEFF) program by producing engaging, informative, and visually appealing multimedia content to support training, awareness, and dissemination of technologies in edible insect farming and utilization.
Overall Purpose of the Job
The Business Support Assistant II (Animator) will be primarily responsible for developing audio-visual content and animations related to edible insect farming, including training manuals, user guides, and promotional content. The position also involves supporting digital dissemination, website content updates, and stakeholder engagement under the INSEFF program.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
- Development of Audio-Visual Training Materials:
Create animated and video-based manuals and user guides to support training on edible insect farming for food, feed, and other products. - Cartoon and Short Film Production:
Design and develop cartoon videos and short films to communicate INSEFF program technologies effectively to target audiences. - Website Maintenance and Content Updates:
Collaborate with the communication unit to regularly update the INSEFF program’s website with fresh and relevant content. - Digital Dissemination of Technologies:
Actively contribute to the dissemination of program-related information and technologies through various online and digital platforms. - Stakeholder Training:
Support training workshops aimed at educating farmers and other key stakeholders on edible insect farming and related technologies. - Participation in Workshops and Conferences:
Represent and promote the INSEFF program by participating in relevant workshops, exhibitions, and conferences to showcase program innovations and outputs. - Progress Reporting:
Assist in compiling and preparing periodic progress reports and documentation related to the animator’s role and responsibilities. - Other Duties:
Carry out additional tasks as may be assigned by the supervisor or the senior program management team.
Required Qualifications and Experience
- Diploma in Animation, Videography, or a closely related field.
- A minimum of one year of relevant professional experience.
- At least two years of hands-on experience in:
- Film development and direction
- Animation (2D and 3D)
- Scriptwriting and translation
- Video editing, modeling, and photography
- Proficiency in:
- Website maintenance and updates
- Utilizing various social media platforms for content dissemination
- Online content development
- Experience in community engagement, storytelling, and working within the context of edible insect farming.
Other Desirable Attributes
- Strong creative and visual storytelling skills, with attention to detail in production and editing.
- Fluency in English, Kiswahili, and other local languages is essential for stakeholder communication.
- Technically adept with various animation and video editing software.
- Excellent organizational and prioritization skills.
- Effective reporting and written communication capabilities.
- A collaborative mindset and the ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
Reporting Line
This position reports directly to the Head of the Insects for Food, Feed and Other Uses Program (INSEFF).
Why Join icipe?
Working at icipe provides a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful and impactful research that directly addresses Africa’s developmental challenges. You will be part of a multicultural and multidisciplinary team that values:
- Excellence in science and innovation
- Environmental sustainability
- Community empowerment
- Gender equity and diversity
- Professional growth and learning
How to Apply
Interested and qualified applicants are invited to submit:
- A confidential cover letter detailing their motivation and suitability for the position.
- A detailed curriculum vitae (CV), including the names and contact information of three referees (with email addresses).
- A statement illustrating suitability based on the listed qualifications, competencies, and responsibilities.
- Information about their current or most recent salary and expected monthly basic salary (this is a mandatory requirement).
Application Deadline: 9th April 2025
