At the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe), we are committed to driving impactful research and development that transforms lives and improves livelihoods. For over five decades, icipe has stood at the forefront of scientific innovation in Africa and beyond, advancing research on insects and related ecosystems to promote sustainable agriculture, health, and environmental management.
As part of our mission to create knowledge and deliver solutions for global challenges, icipe seeks talented, dynamic, and dedicated professionals to join our team. We are excited to announce several career opportunities based at our Duduville Campus, Nairobi. These positions offer the chance to contribute to groundbreaking research, support innovative programs, and shape effective communications that extend our influence across the continent and internationally.
We invite applications for the following roles:
- Head of Communications and External Affairs (Ref: HR/649/25)
- Research Officer I (Mathematical Modeller) – Two Positions (Ref: HR/650/25)
- Programme Support Officer (Ref: HR/651/25)
Each role offers a unique opportunity to be part of an organization that values excellence, creativity, and collaboration. Below, we provide a detailed overview of the job descriptions for each position. For additional details, please refer to the attached PDF.
HR/649/25 – Head of Communications and External Affairs
Location: Duduville Campus
Closing Date: 19 September 2025, GMT+3
The Head of Communications and External Affairs will lead icipe’s strategic communication efforts, ensuring that the institution’s work, achievements, and impact are effectively represented to both internal and external stakeholders. This is a leadership position designed for an individual with strong expertise in strategic communications, public affairs, and stakeholder engagement.
Job Description:
- Lead the planning and implementation of icipe’s communications strategy in alignment with institutional goals.
- Manage the external affairs portfolio, strengthening icipe’s profile with governments, donors, partners, and the media.
- Oversee the development and delivery of effective communication products, including reports, press releases, newsletters, website updates, and social media campaigns.
- Provide strategic direction on branding and visibility to ensure consistency in messaging across all platforms.
- Guide crisis communication strategies and support institutional reputation management.
- Develop and maintain networks with key stakeholders, including research institutions, NGOs, private sector partners, and the public sector.
- Support the Director General and senior leadership in preparing speeches, statements, and presentations for high-level events.
- Mentor and manage a communications team, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and excellence.
This role is central to amplifying icipe’s voice globally and requires an individual capable of aligning communication strategies with scientific and development goals.
HR/650/25 – Research Officer I (Mathematical Modeller) – Two Positions
Location: icipe Duduville Campus
Closing Date: 24 September 2025, GMT+3
icipe is seeking two Research Officers in Mathematical Modelling to strengthen its scientific capacity in analyzing complex systems and generating data-driven insights for decision-making. These positions are vital for advancing our research agenda in ecological modelling, vector control, and sustainable development.
Job Description:
- Develop, implement, and validate mathematical models to support research in agriculture, health, and environmental sciences.
- Analyze datasets to simulate biological, ecological, and socio-economic systems.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams of scientists to design studies and integrate modelling approaches into research projects.
- Provide evidence-based recommendations to guide program design, policy formulation, and resource allocation.
- Document and disseminate research findings through technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, and stakeholder briefs.
- Participate in capacity-building activities by mentoring early-career researchers and providing technical training.
- Stay abreast of new methodologies, software tools, and applications relevant to mathematical modelling.
- Contribute to proposal development and donor reporting by providing technical expertise.
The Research Officer roles will suit individuals with strong analytical skills, creativity in problem-solving, and the ability to translate complex scientific data into practical insights.
HR/651/25 – Programme Support Officer
Location: icipe Duduville Campus
Closing Date: 24 September 2025, GMT+3
The Programme Support Officer will provide critical administrative and coordination support to ensure the smooth implementation of icipe’s projects and programs. This role is ideal for an organized and proactive professional who thrives in a fast-paced, research-focused environment.
Job Description:
- Provide day-to-day administrative support to program teams, ensuring compliance with organizational policies and procedures.
- Support program planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation processes.
- Coordinate the preparation and submission of donor reports, proposals, and project documentation.
- Assist in managing program budgets, including tracking expenditures and ensuring accurate financial reporting.
- Organize program-related events, workshops, and meetings, including logistics and documentation.
- Maintain program records, databases, and filing systems to ensure accuracy and accessibility.
- Act as a liaison between program teams and other support functions such as finance, procurement, and human resources.
- Contribute to program communications by drafting updates, reports, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
This role requires attention to detail, strong coordination skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with teams across the organization.
Why Join icipe?
Working at icipe means being part of a team that is deeply committed to creating solutions that impact lives positively. At icipe, you will:
- Collaborate with leading scientists and professionals in multidisciplinary fields.
- Contribute to projects that address some of the most pressing global challenges in health, agriculture, and the environment.
- Work in an environment that values diversity, innovation, and integrity.
- Grow professionally through training, mentorship, and exposure to international networks.
- Be part of an institution that actively fosters knowledge sharing and sustainable development across Africa and beyond.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to apply for the positions by referring to the detailed descriptions provided in the attached PDF. Please ensure that your application corresponds with the specific reference number for the role you are applying for.
- For Head of Communications and External Affairs (HR/649/25): Apply by 19 September 2025 (GMT+3).
- For Research Officer I (Mathematical Modeller) – Two Positions (HR/650/25): Apply by 24 September 2025 (GMT+3).
- For Programme Support Officer (HR/651/25): Apply by 24 September 2025 (GMT+3).
