World Agroforestry (ICRAF), a center of excellence under the CGIAR system, continues to play a critical role in advancing agricultural research, food security, climate resilience, and sustainable land management across Africa and beyond. Through partnerships with renowned international research institutions such as CIMMYT and ICRISAT, the organization supports innovative scientific solutions aimed at transforming agricultural systems and improving livelihoods.
Professionals seeking opportunities in agricultural research, breeding, biotechnology, data science, machine learning, and field operations can now apply for several exciting positions based in Nairobi and Kiboko, Kenya. These opportunities provide a chance to contribute to cutting-edge agricultural research programs focused on crop improvement, digital agriculture, and sustainable food systems.
The available vacancies are outlined below.
- Research Associate – CIMMYT
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Application Deadline: 9 June 2026
The Research Associate will support the implementation of research activities under CIMMYT programs. The role involves contributing to scientific studies, data collection, analysis, reporting, and coordination of research projects aimed at improving agricultural productivity and resilience.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
- Support the planning and execution of agricultural research activities.
- Participate in field and laboratory research experiments.
- Collect, organize, and manage research data.
- Conduct data analysis and prepare technical reports.
- Assist in the development of research publications and scientific documentation.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams in implementing project activities.
- Support monitoring and evaluation activities related to research projects.
- Ensure compliance with research protocols and institutional guidelines.
- Participate in stakeholder engagements and project meetings.
- Contribute to the dissemination of research findings to relevant audiences.
This position is suitable for professionals interested in applied agricultural research, crop science, and international development programs.
- Machine Learning Operations Specialist – CIMMYT
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Application Deadline: 11 June 2026
The Machine Learning Operations Specialist will support the deployment, management, and optimization of machine learning systems that contribute to agricultural research and innovation initiatives.
The position offers an opportunity to work at the intersection of artificial intelligence, agriculture, and data-driven decision-making.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
- Develop and manage machine learning operational workflows.
- Support the deployment of machine learning models into production environments.
- Monitor model performance and identify opportunities for optimization.
- Collaborate with data scientists and software development teams.
- Implement automation processes for machine learning pipelines.
- Maintain data quality standards and system reliability.
- Support cloud-based infrastructure and machine learning platforms.
- Troubleshoot operational challenges affecting machine learning systems.
- Assist in documenting machine learning processes and procedures.
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing analytical capabilities.
The successful candidate will help strengthen digital agriculture programs through efficient and scalable machine learning solutions.
- Research Technician – ICRISAT
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Application Deadline: 12 June 2026
The Research Technician will provide technical support to research programs under ICRISAT. The role involves supporting field, laboratory, and data management activities to ensure successful implementation of agricultural research projects.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
- Assist in establishing and managing field trials.
- Collect, record, and maintain accurate research data.
- Support laboratory analysis and sample processing.
- Monitor crop performance and experimental activities.
- Prepare research materials and equipment for field operations.
- Maintain research records and databases.
- Participate in data verification and quality assurance activities.
- Support researchers during field visits and project assessments.
- Assist in preparing technical reports and project documentation.
- Ensure adherence to safety and operational procedures.
This position is ideal for individuals interested in practical agricultural research and technical field operations.
- Research Technician – Hybrid Breeding
Location: Kiboko, Makueni County, Kenya
Application Deadline: 12 June 2026
The Research Technician – Hybrid Breeding will support breeding programs aimed at developing improved crop varieties capable of enhancing productivity and resilience under changing climatic conditions.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
- Support hybrid breeding research activities.
- Assist with planting, pollination, harvesting, and seed processing operations.
- Maintain breeding nurseries and field trials.
- Collect and record breeding data accurately.
- Support germplasm management activities.
- Participate in field evaluations and trait assessments.
- Assist in seed inventory management and storage activities.
- Ensure timely preparation of research materials and field equipment.
- Support data management and reporting processes.
- Maintain compliance with research protocols and quality standards.
The role offers practical experience in plant breeding and crop improvement programs.
- Research Technician – Sorghum Breeding
Location: Kiboko, Makueni County, Kenya
Application Deadline: 12 June 2026
The Research Technician – Sorghum Breeding will contribute to sorghum improvement programs through technical support in breeding activities, field trials, data collection, and research operations.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
- Assist in implementing sorghum breeding trials and experiments.
- Conduct field operations including planting, pollination, and harvesting.
- Collect phenotypic and agronomic data from breeding populations.
- Support maintenance of breeding nurseries and research plots.
- Participate in seed handling, processing, and storage activities.
- Maintain accurate records of breeding activities and research observations.
- Assist in data entry and quality control procedures.
- Support field monitoring and evaluation activities.
- Ensure research equipment and materials are properly maintained.
- Contribute to preparation of technical reports and project updates.
The position provides an opportunity to contribute directly to the development of improved sorghum varieties that support food security and climate resilience initiatives.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their applications through the official World Agroforestry (ICRAF) recruitment portal before the respective closing dates indicated for each position.
Applications received after the stated deadlines may not be considered.
