The International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) is a world-class research institution headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, dedicated to improving the well-being of people across Africa through the study and application of insect science. Established in 1970, icipe’s mission focuses on harnessing insect science for sustainable development—addressing critical challenges in agriculture, human health, animal health, and environmental conservation. The Centre’s multidisciplinary approach integrates research, capacity building, and innovation to deliver evidence-based solutions for Africa’s most pressing socio-economic and ecological challenges.
icipe operates across its headquarters in Nairobi and other field and country offices throughout the continent. The Centre continues to attract leading scientists, researchers, and professionals who are passionate about contributing to Africa’s development through scientific discovery and practical solutions.
Each position is critical to icipe’s mission and offers an opportunity for professionals to contribute to cutting-edge research and development work in animal health, environmental protection, and sustainable agriculture. Below are the detailed job descriptions for each role.
HR/647/25 – Head of Animal Health Theme
Duty Station: icipe Duduville Campus, Nairobi
Closing Date: 24 November 2025
The Head of Animal Health Theme will provide strategic and scientific leadership to icipe’s Animal Health Theme, which focuses on vector-borne livestock diseases and related areas. This role is vital in driving innovative research, developing partnerships, and ensuring the translation of scientific outputs into practical solutions that support livestock productivity and rural livelihoods in Africa.
Job Description
The position holder will oversee the planning, coordination, and implementation of research and capacity-building initiatives in animal health, ensuring alignment with icipe’s strategic goals. The Head will guide multidisciplinary research teams working on vectors and pathogens affecting livestock, explore eco-friendly disease control solutions, and promote the integration of insect science in livestock management.
Key responsibilities include:
- Providing strategic direction and leadership in the development and execution of icipe’s Animal Health research agenda.
- Managing and mentoring research teams to achieve excellence in scientific performance and innovation.
- Overseeing project design, implementation, and monitoring to ensure timely and high-quality outputs.
- Fostering collaboration across icipe’s research themes and with international and national partners, including universities, government institutions, and donors.
- Mobilizing resources through proposal development and partnership engagement to sustain and expand research programs.
- Representing icipe in national and international scientific fora, conferences, and stakeholder meetings.
- Ensuring research findings are effectively communicated through scientific publications, policy briefs, and extension materials for farmers and policymakers.
- Promoting ethical research practices, gender inclusivity, and capacity development within the Animal Health Theme.
- Supervising postgraduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and technical staff, ensuring quality mentorship and professional growth.
The Head of Animal Health Theme will play a leading role in advancing icipe’s contribution to improving animal health systems, reducing vector-borne disease burden, and enhancing the livelihoods of farming communities across Africa.
Recruitment Process and Important Notice
All icipe job advertisements are published on the icipe jobs section of the website (www.icipe.org/jobs), official social media platforms (LinkedIn, Facebook, and X/Twitter), or reputable mainstream media outlets. Each advertisement provides clear job descriptions and outlines the relevant experience required.
The official recruitment process at icipe follows these stages:
- A job advertisement is issued through the Centre’s verified communication channels.
- Shortlisting is conducted by a panel, and successful candidates are invited for an interview using only official icipe communication channels.
- Candidates who successfully complete the interview stage receive an official offer letter and sign a contract upon joining icipe.
It is important to note that icipe does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. Candidates are never required to make payments to secure a position or attend an interview. All communication with shortlisted and successful applicants is conducted directly by icipe through official contact methods.
Successful applicants will only be required to present original certifications and documents for verification upon reporting to an icipe office.
Members of the public are urged to exercise caution when approached by individuals or organizations claiming to represent icipe and requesting payment for job placement. Such activities are fraudulent and should be reported to law enforcement authorities for further action.
For any recruitment-related inquiries, applicants are encouraged to contact icipe directly through official communication channels at [email protected] or by phone at 020 863 2000.
How to Apply
Interested candidates who meet the requirements for any of the listed positions are encouraged to submit their applications through the official icipe online application system provided on the careers page at www.icipe.org/jobs before the stated closing dates.
Applications must include a detailed CV, a cover letter describing relevant experience, and contact information for three professional referees. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
