The International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) invites qualified and motivated individuals to apply for several open positions within its dynamic research and development programs. As a leading international scientific research organization headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, icipe conducts world-class research in insect science to improve food and nutritional security, health, and livelihoods across Africa.
The Centre’s innovative work is driven by its commitment to sustainable solutions through research, capacity building, and knowledge transfer. icipe seeks to fill the following positions: Head of Animal Health Theme, Research Officer I, and Senior Research Officer I. Each of these roles offers an opportunity to contribute to transformative scientific initiatives that address real-world challenges in agriculture, health, and the environment.
Below are detailed descriptions of each position.
HR/647/25 – Head of Animal Health Theme
Duty Station: icipe Duduville Campus
Closing Date: 24 November 2025 (GMT+3)
The Head of Animal Health Theme will provide overall leadership, strategic direction, and oversight of icipe’s animal health research and development programs. The incumbent will guide a multidisciplinary team of scientists working on innovative approaches to improve livestock health, productivity, and resilience to emerging and re-emerging vector-borne and parasitic diseases.
The position involves steering scientific initiatives that integrate insect vector biology, disease ecology, and novel control strategies to enhance sustainable livestock production systems in Africa.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide scientific and strategic leadership in animal health research, ensuring the alignment of projects with icipe’s mission and strategic plan.
- Develop, coordinate, and implement research programs focused on vector-borne livestock diseases, integrating cross-disciplinary scientific approaches and technologies.
- Supervise, mentor, and provide professional guidance to a team of scientists, research officers, and technical staff within the Animal Health Theme.
- Build and maintain strong partnerships with regional and international research institutions, governments, development partners, and private sector stakeholders to foster collaborative research and knowledge exchange.
- Oversee resource mobilization efforts by identifying funding opportunities, preparing high-quality proposals, and managing donor relations.
- Ensure scientific excellence and quality assurance in research outputs, publications, and data management within the theme.
- Promote the translation of scientific findings into practical applications, policy recommendations, and sustainable technologies that benefit smallholder farmers and livestock keepers.
- Manage the financial and administrative operations of the Animal Health Theme, including budgeting, project tracking, and reporting in accordance with icipe’s institutional policies.
- Contribute to institutional leadership and participate actively in icipe’s senior management and strategic decision-making processes.
This role requires a results-oriented scientist with exceptional leadership capabilities, an ability to think strategically, and a track record of leading multidisciplinary research initiatives. The Head of Animal Health Theme will play a key role in shaping icipe’s contribution to livestock health and sustainable agricultural development across the continent.
HR/659/25 – Research Officer I
Duty Station: icipe Duduville Campus
Closing Date: 4 November 2025 (GMT+3)
The Research Officer I will support ongoing scientific projects under the supervision of senior scientists. This role is designed for a dedicated researcher with a strong technical background and a keen interest in conducting laboratory and field studies that advance icipe’s research agenda. The incumbent will contribute to data collection, experimental design, analysis, and the preparation of technical and scientific outputs.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist in the design and implementation of experiments in the relevant research theme, ensuring adherence to established scientific protocols.
- Conduct fieldwork, data collection, and laboratory analyses under the guidance of senior researchers.
- Maintain accurate records of experimental data, samples, and other research materials to ensure reproducibility and data integrity.
- Participate in data entry, statistical analysis, and the preparation of technical reports, manuscripts, and presentations.
- Support the development and testing of new methodologies, tools, and technologies relevant to ongoing research programs.
- Coordinate with research assistants and technicians to ensure smooth execution of project activities.
- Contribute to capacity-building initiatives by providing technical support and mentorship to junior staff, interns, and students involved in related projects.
- Ensure that research activities comply with ethical and biosafety regulations, as well as icipe’s institutional standards.
- Participate in project meetings, workshops, and training sessions as required.
- Contribute to the dissemination of research findings through reports, peer-reviewed publications, and conference presentations.
The Research Officer I position provides an opportunity for early-career scientists to engage in high-quality research while developing their professional skills in a supportive and innovative scientific environment. The role emphasizes teamwork, technical competence, and scientific rigor.
HR/661/25 – Senior Research Officer I
Duty Station: icipe Thomas Odhiambo Campus
Closing Date: 13 November 2025 (GMT+3)
The Senior Research Officer I will play a pivotal role in designing, coordinating, and implementing research activities within icipe’s programs. Reporting to the Theme Leader or Principal Scientist, the incumbent will be responsible for managing research operations, supervising junior staff, and contributing to the generation of high-quality scientific outputs. This role demands an individual with strong research experience, analytical skills, and an ability to work both independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.
Key Responsibilities:
- Plan and execute research projects within the assigned program area, ensuring scientific excellence and alignment with icipe’s strategic objectives.
- Design and implement experiments that contribute to the generation of novel data and scientific insights in the respective research theme.
- Supervise and mentor Research Officers, technicians, and students engaged in related projects, ensuring adherence to research standards and timelines.
- Manage field and laboratory research activities, including experimental design, sampling, data management, and analysis.
- Prepare technical and scientific reports, manuscripts, and funding proposals for submission to donors and partners.
- Contribute to the development and refinement of innovative research methodologies and tools.
- Engage in collaborative research with local and international partners, fostering the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and technologies.
- Ensure compliance with institutional research ethics, safety standards, and data management procedures.
- Participate in project planning, budgeting, and monitoring to ensure the efficient use of resources and timely delivery of project outcomes.
- Disseminate research results through scientific publications, conference presentations, and stakeholder workshops.
- Support resource mobilization initiatives by identifying funding opportunities and contributing to proposal development.
The Senior Research Officer I position provides a platform for an experienced scientist to take on greater responsibility in research management and leadership. The incumbent will be expected to contribute significantly to icipe’s scientific reputation by producing high-impact research outputs and fostering a culture of scientific excellence.
Application Procedure
Interested candidates should submit their applications as per the guidelines provided in the specific job postings available on icipe’s career portal. Each application must include a detailed curriculum vitae, a cover letter outlining the candidate’s motivation and suitability for the position, and contact details of three referees familiar with the candidate’s professional background.
Applications must be received by the respective closing dates indicated for each position. Late submissions will not be considered.
icipe is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce. All qualified individuals, regardless of gender, nationality, or background, are encouraged to apply.
