Research Associate, Bioenergy and Environment (Internal Vacancy)

Center for International Forestry Research
Center for International Forestry Research

Nairobi, Kenya

Posted on Sep 7, 2026

About Us

CIFOR & ICRAF in action

Landscape Alliance transforms science into action, unlocking the power of trees, forests and agroforestry landscapes to advance planetary health and human well-being. It is the shared operating name of the Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) and the International Centre for Research in Agroforestry (ICRAF), two independent International Organizations and CGIAR Research Centers working together through a common strategy, governance and leadership structure.

CIFOR and ICRAF bring together decades of scientific leadership in forests, trees, agroforestry, biodiversity, climate, food systems and livelihoods. CIFOR, headquartered in Bogor, Indonesia, advances research on forests and landscape management to inform policies and practices that improve human well-being, protect the environment and increase equity. ICRAF, headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, harnesses the benefits of trees for people and the environment, generating knowledge that helps governments, development partners and farmers make farming and livelihoods more sustainable.

Overview

The position provides technical expertise in development of science-based innovations in sustainable natural resource management and agroforestry, bioenergy-biochar systems, circular bioeconomy, climate change mitigation and adaptation for sustainable development and for the transformation of landscapes and livelihoods. The role is responsible for capacity development, production and dissemination of scientific knowledge, resource mobilization and building partnerships while ensuring alignment with organizational priorities and global development goals.

Job Description

1. Project management

  • Contribute towards research design, implementation, data analysis and interpretation, monitoring, evaluation and learning processes

2. Leadership:

  • Identify innovative ideas for technology and innovations development and support partnerships and collaboration development within Kenya country office, region, globally and with other organizations.

3. Financial resource mobilization

  • Contribute to multidisciplinary concept note and proposal development for fund raising for bioenergy-biochar systems and their integration in the broader research initiatives, circular bioeconomy, climate change, agroforestry and related work themes.

4. Science production, innovative use, and practice change

  • Produce and disseminate quality, impactful and transformative scientific body of knowledge.

Requirements

  • MSc in natural resource management, environmental management, environmental science and technology development and other related fields
  • Over 5 years’ experience in research, technology and innovations development in bioenergy-biochar systems, circular bioeconomy, climate change, community development.
  • Experience in enhancing collaboration and building the capacity of local communities
  • Proven record in scientific writing including peer reviewed journal papers

Education, Experience and Technical skills

•MSc in natural resource management, environmental management, environmental science and technology development and other related fields •Over 5 years’ experience in research, technology and innovations development in bioenergy-biochar systems, circular bioeconomy, climate change, community development. •Experience in enhancing collaboration and building the capacity of local communities •Proven record in scientific writing including peer reviewed journal papers

Personal Attributes and Competencies

•Ability to nurture collaboration and work in transdisciplinary teams •Good data analysis, written and verbal communication skills. •Demonstrated inspiration for professional growth in environmental technology and innovations development

Terms and conditions

•This is a Locally Recruited Position (LRS). CIFOR-ICRAF offers competitive remuneration in local currency commensurate with skills and experience. •The initial appointment will be for two (2) years, with a six-month probationary period, with the possibility of extension contingent upon performance, continued relevance of the position and available resources. •The position is based in Nairobi, Kenya and the candidate will be expected to work closely with Kiambu County Officials and project partners during implementation

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