The International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) has announced new career opportunities in Kenya for qualified professionals interested in agricultural research and development. These vacancies provide an opportunity to contribute to scientific research that supports sustainable agriculture, food security, and improved livelihoods across Africa.
The available positions are based in Nairobi, Kenya, and are open to local candidates. The opportunities include a Crop Science and Remote Sensing Specialist position and a Research Technician role under ICRISAT. These positions are suitable for professionals seeking to advance their careers in agricultural science, crop research, remote sensing, and laboratory or field-based research.
Below is a detailed overview of each vacancy.
1. Crop Science and Remote Sensing Specialist
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Organization: CIMMYT
Position Type: Local Position
Application Deadline: 10 July 2026
Job Overview
CIMMYT is seeking a Crop Science and Remote Sensing Specialist to support research initiatives that integrate crop science with advanced remote sensing technologies. The position plays an important role in generating scientific data, supporting agricultural innovation, and improving crop monitoring systems through modern analytical tools.
The successful candidate will collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams to collect, analyze, and interpret crop-related information for research projects aimed at improving agricultural productivity and resilience.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
The successful candidate will be responsible for:
- Supporting crop research activities in both field and controlled environments.
- Applying remote sensing technologies to monitor crop growth and performance.
- Collecting, processing, and analyzing agricultural datasets from multiple sources.
- Supporting the implementation of precision agriculture and digital agriculture initiatives.
- Conducting field assessments and monitoring crop development throughout growing seasons.
- Assisting in the design and implementation of agricultural experiments.
- Processing satellite imagery, drone imagery, and other geospatial datasets.
- Producing maps and visualizations that support research activities.
- Maintaining accurate databases for crop and environmental observations.
- Performing statistical analysis of agricultural research data.
- Collaborating with scientists and research partners on multidisciplinary projects.
- Preparing technical reports and research documentation.
- Supporting data quality assurance and validation procedures.
- Participating in project planning and implementation meetings.
- Contributing to research publications and scientific outputs where required.
- Monitoring crop health using modern digital technologies.
- Supporting climate-smart agriculture research initiatives.
- Assisting in technology transfer and knowledge-sharing activities.
- Coordinating field data collection with research teams.
- Ensuring research protocols and operational procedures are followed.
- Performing additional research-related duties assigned by project supervisors.
2. Research Technician – ICRISAT (Readvertisement)
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Organization: CIMMYT
Position Type: Local Position
Application Deadline: 14 July 2026
Job Overview
CIMMYT is recruiting a Research Technician under ICRISAT to support ongoing agricultural research programmes. The position involves providing technical support for laboratory, greenhouse, and field research activities while ensuring accurate collection, recording, and management of research data.
The Research Technician will work closely with scientists and researchers to facilitate experiments, maintain research materials, and ensure smooth implementation of project activities.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
The successful candidate will be expected to:
- Assist in planning and implementing agricultural research activities.
- Support field trials and experimental plot management.
- Prepare research materials and equipment for experiments.
- Collect field observations and research measurements accurately.
- Record experimental data using approved data collection procedures.
- Maintain research records and databases.
- Assist in laboratory sample preparation and processing.
- Support greenhouse operations where required.
- Monitor crop growth and report observations to researchers.
- Maintain research equipment and ensure proper utilization.
- Assist with seed preparation, planting, harvesting, and post-harvest activities.
- Label, organize, and store research samples appropriately.
- Ensure compliance with laboratory and field safety procedures.
- Participate in data entry, verification, and quality control activities.
- Support inventory management for research supplies and consumables.
- Coordinate logistics for field activities and research operations.
- Assist in preparing routine technical reports.
- Participate in project meetings and training sessions.
- Support collaboration between research teams and partner institutions.
- Perform other technical duties assigned in support of research programmes.
Why Consider a Career at CIMMYT?
CIMMYT is an internationally recognized agricultural research organization committed to improving food systems through scientific innovation. The organization works with governments, universities, research institutions, and development partners to develop sustainable agricultural solutions that enhance food security, climate resilience, and farmer livelihoods.
Working at CIMMYT offers professionals the opportunity to contribute to internationally significant research projects while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams dedicated to agricultural advancement.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their applications before the respective deadlines:
- Crop Science and Remote Sensing Specialist – Closing Date: 10 July 2026
- Research Technician – ICRISAT (Readvertisement) – Closing Date: 14 July 2026
