Career Opportunities at icipe
The International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) is a world-class research institute headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya. Since its establishment, icipe has been at the forefront of scientific innovation, delivering impactful research that addresses some of the most pressing challenges in food security, human and animal health, environmental sustainability, and livelihood improvement in Africa and beyond.
At icipe, we believe that people are the driving force behind our success. We provide an inclusive, supportive, and diverse environment where talented professionals can thrive and contribute to cutting-edge science. Our staff members are drawn from multiple disciplines and work collaboratively with partners worldwide.
We are currently seeking qualified and motivated individuals to join our dynamic team in Nairobi. The following positions are open for application:
1. Head of Communications and External Affairs
Reference Number: HR/649/25
Duty Station: Duduville Campus
Closing Date: 22 September 2025
Job Description
The Head of Communications and External Affairs will be responsible for leading icipe’s strategic communications, branding, and external relations portfolio. The role will ensure that icipe’s achievements, research outputs, and strategic vision are effectively communicated to diverse audiences, including governments, donors, partners, and the public.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement icipe’s communication strategy aligned with the organisation’s mission and vision.
- Oversee the design, production, and dissemination of communication materials, publications, and digital content.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with the media, policymakers, and stakeholders.
- Manage external affairs initiatives, including stakeholder engagement and institutional branding.
- Provide strategic advice to senior leadership on communication matters.
- Lead a communications team, ensuring high performance, creativity, and alignment with organisational goals.
2. Research Officer I (Mathematical Modeller) – Two Positions
Reference Number: HR/650/25
Duty Station: icipe Duduville Campus
Closing Date: 24 September 2025
Job Description
The Research Officer I (Mathematical Modeller) will contribute to the development of mathematical and computational models that support research activities across icipe’s programmes. The focus will be on designing models to understand complex biological systems, ecological interactions, and epidemiological dynamics, ultimately contributing to the development of sustainable solutions for agriculture, health, and environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and implement mathematical models to support research in vector control, pest management, and ecological systems.
- Analyse large datasets to provide insights into biological and environmental dynamics.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams to integrate modelling approaches into experimental designs and field studies.
- Document modelling methodologies, results, and findings for internal and external dissemination.
- Publish research outputs in peer-reviewed journals and contribute to scientific conferences.
- Provide technical support and training to colleagues and partners on mathematical modelling tools.
3. Programme Support Officer
Reference Number: HR/651/25
Duty Station: icipe Duduville Campus
Closing Date: 24 September 2025
Job Description
The Programme Support Officer will provide comprehensive administrative and operational support to ensure smooth functioning of icipe’s programmes. This role will serve as a link between programme leadership, project teams, and administrative units, ensuring compliance with institutional procedures and efficient delivery of programme objectives.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide day-to-day administrative and logistical support to programme teams.
- Assist in the preparation and coordination of programme work plans, budgets, and reports.
- Monitor programme activities to ensure alignment with timelines and objectives.
- Organise meetings, workshops, and events, including documentation and follow-up actions.
- Support communication between programme teams and institutional departments.
- Maintain accurate records, files, and databases to facilitate programme reporting and audits.
- Contribute to knowledge management by supporting the preparation of technical documents and presentations.
4. Project Accountant
Reference Number: HR/654/25
Duty Station: icipe Duduville Campus
Closing Date: 30 September 2025
Job Description
The Project Accountant will be responsible for financial management of donor-funded projects at icipe. The role will ensure that all financial transactions are accurately recorded, reported, and compliant with both donor and institutional requirements. The Project Accountant will work closely with project managers and finance teams to ensure efficient use of resources and accountability.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare project budgets, financial forecasts, and cash flow projections in consultation with project teams.
- Monitor project expenditures against budgets and provide regular financial reports to stakeholders.
- Ensure compliance with donor guidelines, institutional financial policies, and statutory requirements.
- Review and process financial transactions, ensuring accuracy and completeness of supporting documentation.
- Coordinate project audits and support the preparation of donor financial reports.
- Maintain up-to-date records of project accounts, contracts, and supporting documents.
- Provide financial advice and training to project staff on budgeting and reporting requirements.
