The International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) — headquartered at Duduville Campus, Nairobi, Kenya — is a world-renowned research institute that has, for decades, been at the forefront of innovative scientific research in Africa. Founded in 1970, icipe’s mission is to use insect science to improve the well-being of people and the environment. Through groundbreaking research, capacity building, and partnerships across the globe, icipe works to tackle challenges such as food insecurity, vector-borne diseases, environmental degradation, and poverty.
As part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen research and administrative capacities, icipe is inviting applications from qualified and motivated individuals for the following positions:
- Programme and Administrative Officer (Ref: HR/655/25)
Duty Station: icipe Duduville Campus, Nairobi
Closing Date: 10 October 2025 - Postdoctoral Fellow – Red Palm Weevil Project (Ref: HR/656/25)
Duty Station: icipe Duduville Campus, Nairobi
Closing Date: 30 October 2025
These positions present exceptional opportunities for talented professionals to contribute to meaningful work that enhances sustainable livelihoods, strengthens research impact, and drives environmental conservation through science-led solutions.
1. Programme and Administrative Officer (Ref: HR/655/25)
Overview
The Programme and Administrative Officer will play a vital role in providing comprehensive administrative and programmatic support to the assigned research or capacity-building programmes within icipe. The role demands a proactive professional with strong organizational, coordination, and reporting abilities to ensure the smooth running of project activities in line with the Centre’s strategic objectives.
The incumbent will work closely with project leaders, scientists, and administrative departments to ensure efficient programme execution, compliance with donor regulations, and timely delivery of project outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
1. Programme Coordination and Implementation
- Support the management and coordination of activities within the designated research or capacity development programme, ensuring adherence to established timelines and deliverables.
- Monitor project progress and prepare periodic updates, status reports, and briefings for the Programme Manager, Director, and other stakeholders.
- Assist in organizing programme-related meetings, workshops, and seminars, including preparing agendas, documentation, and reports.
- Facilitate communication and coordination among project partners, collaborating institutions, and internal departments to enhance programme synergy and knowledge exchange.
2. Financial and Administrative Support
- Coordinate budgeting, financial monitoring, and expenditure tracking for the assigned programme in collaboration with the Finance Department.
- Prepare and process requisitions, purchase orders, and other administrative documents in compliance with icipe’s procurement and financial policies.
- Maintain comprehensive records of project finances, ensuring that all transactions are properly documented and reported in line with donor requirements.
- Assist in the preparation of financial and technical reports for submission to donors and other partners.
3. Documentation and Reporting
- Compile and maintain accurate and up-to-date records of programme activities, outputs, and achievements.
- Draft and format reports, briefing notes, and other official correspondence for internal and external audiences.
- Contribute to the preparation of programme performance reviews, impact assessments, and evaluation reports.
- Support the development of content for newsletters, website updates, and other communication materials related to the programme.
4. Logistics and Operations Support
- Coordinate logistical arrangements for field missions, training events, and workshops, including travel bookings, accommodations, and per diem processing.
- Liaise with suppliers and service providers to ensure timely delivery of goods and services required for programme implementation.
- Manage the scheduling of meetings, documentation of minutes, and follow-up on action points to ensure accountability and continuity.
5. Stakeholder and Partner Relations
- Serve as a liaison point between icipe, project partners, donors, and other relevant stakeholders.
- Ensure effective communication and information flow among all actors involved in programme delivery.
- Support donor visibility and relationship management efforts through timely responses, documentation, and participation in strategic meetings when required.
6. Compliance and Governance
- Ensure all programme operations comply with icipe’s internal policies, procedures, and donor-specific requirements.
- Monitor contractual obligations and ensure project agreements are implemented within the approved framework.
- Identify potential risks and escalate issues requiring management attention in a timely manner.
The Programme and Administrative Officer will report to the Programme Manager or a designated Supervisor and will contribute directly to the success of icipe’s strategic goals by enabling efficient and transparent programme delivery. This role is ideal for individuals with a passion for science administration, international collaboration, and impactful research management.
2. Postdoctoral Fellow – Red Palm Weevil Project (Ref: HR/656/25)
Overview
The International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) is implementing a cutting-edge research project focused on the Red Palm Weevil (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus), an invasive pest that poses a serious threat to palm species worldwide. The project aims to enhance the understanding of the pest’s biology, ecology, and management through innovative research approaches, thereby contributing to sustainable agricultural systems and biodiversity protection.
The Postdoctoral Fellow – Red Palm Weevil Project will join icipe’s Environmental Health Theme and work under the supervision of senior scientists. The Fellow will play a pivotal role in designing, implementing, and publishing high-impact research on the biology, chemical ecology, and management of the Red Palm Weevil.
Key Responsibilities
1. Research Design and Execution
- Design and conduct experiments related to the biology, behaviour, and ecology of the Red Palm Weevil under laboratory and field conditions.
- Develop and implement integrated pest management (IPM) strategies incorporating biological control, pheromone trapping, and ecological modeling.
- Investigate host-plant interactions and develop sustainable management solutions that reduce reliance on chemical pesticides.
- Collect, analyze, and interpret scientific data using modern statistical and analytical tools to generate meaningful insights and recommendations.
2. Collaboration and Partnership Development
- Collaborate with icipe scientists, national research institutions, and international partners in developing multidisciplinary approaches to pest management.
- Engage with relevant stakeholders, including agricultural extension officers, farmers, and policymakers, to translate scientific findings into practical applications.
- Participate in joint research initiatives, training programs, and conferences to strengthen collaboration and promote knowledge sharing.
3. Data Analysis, Publication, and Dissemination
- Prepare high-quality scientific manuscripts and contribute to peer-reviewed publications in reputable journals.
- Present research findings at international conferences, symposia, and stakeholder meetings to enhance project visibility.
- Develop technical reports, policy briefs, and extension materials summarizing project achievements and recommendations for policymakers and practitioners.
- Contribute to the preparation of project progress reports, donor updates, and knowledge management products.
4. Capacity Building and Mentorship
- Mentor and provide technical guidance to graduate students, interns, and research assistants working on related projects.
- Facilitate training workshops and seminars on entomological methods, pest management strategies, and experimental design.
- Support the development of research proposals and contribute to the Centre’s fundraising efforts by identifying new funding opportunities.
5. Laboratory and Field Management
- Oversee laboratory operations related to the Red Palm Weevil research, ensuring compliance with safety and ethical standards.
- Maintain and manage insect colonies, data records, and equipment inventories.
- Coordinate field trials, including planning logistics, supervising data collection, and ensuring quality control of experimental processes.
6. Innovation and Knowledge Transfer
- Explore the use of novel technologies, such as remote sensing, artificial intelligence, and molecular tools, in pest monitoring and control.
- Develop new approaches for early detection and surveillance of the Red Palm Weevil, supporting national and regional pest management programs.
- Translate research outputs into practical recommendations for agricultural policy, extension systems, and sustainable farming practices.
7. Reporting and Accountability
- Provide periodic progress reports to the Project Leader and funding partners, ensuring adherence to timelines and deliverables.
- Contribute to annual work plans and project reviews, highlighting achievements, challenges, and lessons learned.
- Support compliance with institutional, ethical, and donor guidelines in all research activities.
The Postdoctoral Fellow will be an integral part of icipe’s mission to promote environmentally friendly pest control strategies and safeguard agricultural productivity in Africa and beyond. The position offers exposure to advanced research methods, cross-cultural collaboration, and opportunities to make a tangible impact in the field of insect science and environmental sustainability.
Why Join icipe?
At icipe, you will become part of a dynamic, multicultural, and multidisciplinary environment that values innovation, scientific excellence, and impact-driven research. icipe offers:
- Opportunities to work alongside world-leading scientists and professionals in diverse fields of entomology, ecology, and agriculture.
- Access to advanced laboratory and field research facilities at the Duduville Campus in Nairobi and other regional stations.
- A collaborative work culture that fosters learning, mentorship, and career growth.
- Commitment to gender equity, diversity, and inclusion across all programs.
- Competitive remuneration and a supportive international work environment.
By joining icipe, you will not only contribute to solving some of Africa’s most pressing challenges but also build a rewarding career in science, development, and innovation.
Application Procedure
Interested candidates are invited to visit icipe’s official recruitment portal for detailed application instructions corresponding to each position. Ensure that you submit your application, including a detailed CV and cover letter quoting the relevant reference number, by the respective deadline.
- Programme and Administrative Officer (Ref: HR/655/25) – Closing date: 10 October 2025
- Postdoctoral Fellow (Red Palm Weevil Project) (Ref: HR/656/25) – Closing date: 30 October 2025
Late applications will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
