World Agroforestry has announced new career opportunities in Nairobi, Kenya. The organization is currently recruiting qualified professionals for three research-based positions under its partnerships with CIMMYT and ICRISAT. These opportunities are ideal for candidates interested in agricultural research, crop improvement, agroforestry, and scientific field operations.
World Agroforestry, also known as World Agroforestry, is internationally recognized for advancing sustainable agriculture, environmental conservation, and climate-resilient land use systems. Through its research partnerships, the institution continues to support innovation in farming systems across Africa and beyond.
The newly advertised vacancies are based in Nairobi and offer professionals a chance to contribute directly to research programmes focused on crop breeding, seed systems, and agricultural development.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the available positions.
1. Research Technician – Hybrid Breeding (CIMMYT)
Organization: World Agroforestry
Programme: CIMMYT
Location: Nairobi
Position Summary
World Agroforestry is recruiting a Research Technician to support hybrid breeding activities under CIMMYT. The role will contribute to the development and management of breeding trials and related research operations aimed at improving crop productivity and resilience.
The successful candidate will work closely with breeding teams and support day-to-day technical implementation of breeding experiments both in the field and in related research facilities.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
- Support implementation of hybrid breeding research activities and field operations
- Establish, monitor, and maintain breeding trials according to approved protocols
- Collect, record, and organize breeding and field data accurately
- Support pollination activities, seed handling, and breeding nursery management
- Assist in harvesting, processing, and storage of breeding materials
- Maintain research records, field books, and trial databases
- Coordinate with scientists and technical teams on routine breeding workflows
- Assist with preparation of trial materials and field logistics
- Ensure adherence to quality standards and research procedures in breeding operations
- Support reporting and documentation of breeding progress
This role is suitable for candidates interested in practical crop improvement research and agricultural innovation.
2. Research Technician – ICRISAT
Organization: World Agroforestry
Programme: ICRISAT
Location: Nairobi
Position Summary
World Agroforestry is also hiring a Research Technician to support research activities under ICRISAT. The role will provide technical support in field research, data collection, trial implementation, and management of agricultural research activities.
The selected candidate will contribute to ongoing scientific work focused on crop systems, sustainable agriculture, and improved farming practices in dryland and semi-arid production systems.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
- Assist in planning and implementing agricultural research trials
- Support field preparation, planting, monitoring, and harvesting activities
- Collect research data from field experiments and enter findings into relevant systems
- Maintain trial records and documentation for research activities
- Assist with sample collection, labeling, and handling
- Monitor crop performance and report field observations
- Support seed management and trial material handling
- Coordinate logistics for field-based research activities
- Ensure compliance with technical research protocols and safety procedures
- Provide operational support to researchers and programme teams as required
This position offers a strong opportunity for candidates interested in agricultural field research and technical programme support.
3. Research Associate – CIMMYT
Organization: World Agroforestry
Programme: CIMMYT
Location: Nairobi
Position Summary
World Agroforestry is seeking a Research Associate to support CIMMYT research programmes based in Nairobi. The role will contribute to research design, implementation, technical coordination, and scientific support for ongoing programme activities.
The position is expected to work closely with researchers, technical staff, and project teams in supporting data-driven agricultural research initiatives.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
- Support implementation of research projects and programme activities
- Coordinate field and research-related operations within assigned projects
- Assist with research data collection, analysis, and interpretation
- Support preparation of technical documentation and project reports
- Maintain research records and contribute to data management processes
- Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure smooth project execution
- Support monitoring and evaluation of research activities
- Participate in project planning meetings and technical reviews
- Assist with preparation of research outputs and programme documentation
- Contribute to overall delivery of research objectives under CIMMYT programmes
This role is ideal for candidates looking to grow their experience within international agricultural research and programme delivery.
About World Agroforestry
World Agroforestry works globally to improve lives and landscapes through science-based solutions involving trees, agriculture, and sustainable land management. The organization partners with governments, communities, research institutions, and development agencies to deliver research that addresses climate change, food security, biodiversity, and livelihoods.
Its work across Africa continues to play an important role in strengthening sustainable agricultural systems and supporting resilience among farming communities.
How to Apply
Candidates interested in any of the above positions should visit the official World Agroforestry careers page to review full vacancy details and submit their applications online.
World Agroforestry Careers Page
Application Deadline
Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible, as review of applications may begin before the closing date.
