3,053 Research Development jobs in Kenya

• Nairobi Kenya
• Posted 1 hour ago
• Deadline: 09 October 2025
• Partner: CIFOR-ICRAF

CIFOR-ICRAF
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Under the supervision of the head of SPACIAL the Spatial Data Scientist – Remote Sensing will lead and implement advanced remote sensing analysis tasks, including processing of optical and SAR data, timeseries analysis, and predictive modeling with primary focus on the modeling of temporal dynamics across complex landscapes. The position will support a range of projects and programmes across CIFOR-ICRAF, including Regreening Africa, Knowledge for Great Green Wall Action (K4GGWA). Towards Ending Drought Emergencies (Twende), and upcoming assessments of soil and land health with funding from NORAD.

Duties and responsibilities

Spatial data science

• Optical data processing and analysis, including from sensors such as Sentinel 2 and Landsat 8/9.
• SAR data processing and analysis, primarily Sentinel 1.
• Timeseries analysis, including detection of trends and anomalies in temporal data (vegetation, precipitation, land surface temperatures, etc)
• Predictive modeling of time series data, including forecasting where relevant.
• Applications of machine learning for predictive modeling and mapping of indicators relevant to assessment of ecosystem health using a combination of field data and remote sensing.
• Spatial data analysis tasks, including spatial queries, vector data extraction, processing, and cleaning.
• General data analysis and report writing.
• Supervise a team of junior spatial data scientists and developers.
• Develop communication products/outputs where relevant.

Capacity development

• Lead internal capacity development seminars within CIFOR-ICRAF.
• Capacity development of partners and stakeholders through workshops as part of projects with particular emphasis on spatial data processing and modeling.

Stakeholder engagement

• Work closely with the CIFOR-ICRAF stakeholder engagement team (SHARED) to provide analytical outputs that feed into project delivery, for example monitoring outputs as part of the Great Green Wall.
• Contribute to stakeholder engagement events as part of the development of decision support tools and platforms.

Various Other Tasks

• Contribute to micro-dashboard development as part of the Global Resilience Impact Tracker platform
• Support projects and programs with analytical support and stakeholder engagement with decision makers.
• Lead and/or contribute to scientific papers.
• Contribute to proposal development and writing.

Requirements
Education, knowledge and experience

• MSc degree in remote sensing and spatial data science is required with proven ability to conduct highly complex analytical tasks.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Excellent written and spoken English.
• Advanced computer programming skills in R Statistics, some knowledge of Python and/or Julia, database technologies, and data management.

Personal Attributes And Competencies

• Excellent skills in organizing and priority setting, with the ability to work effectively under time pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Have initiative and capable of working independently as well as an effective team player.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact with people in a multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural environment.
• Experience working with a wide and diverse network of groups and individuals.
• Proactive, target driven, and diligent.
• Works with trustworthiness and integrity.

Education, knowledge and experience

• MSc degree in remote sensing and spatial data science is required with proven ability to conduct highly complex analytical tasks.
• Advanced computer programming skills in R Statistics, some knowledge of Python and/or Julia, database technologies, and data management.

Terms and conditions

• This is a Globally Recruited Staff (GRS) position. CIFOR-ICRAF offers competitive remuneration in USD, commensurate with skills and experience.
• The appointment will be for two (2) year period, inclusive of a six-month probationary period, with the possibility of extension contingent upon performance, continued relevance of the position and available resources.
• The duty station will be in Kenya, Nairobi.

Learn more

• Assist in collecting and organizing data from various internal and external sources.
• Perform data cleaning and pre-processing to ensure accuracy and consistency.
• Conduct exploratory data analysis to identify patterns, trends, and anomalies.
• Support the development of reports and dashboards using data visualization tools.
• Help in analyzing business performance metrics and identifying key drivers.
• Assist in generating insights and recommendations based on data analysis.
• Collaborate with team members to understand data requirements for specific projects.
• Learn and apply statistical techniques for data analysis.
• Document data sources, methodologies, and findings.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to project discussions.
• Gain exposure to various data analysis tools and techniques.
• Support senior analysts in ad-hoc data requests and analytical projects.

• Recent graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Statistics, Mathematics, Economics, Computer Science, Business Analytics, or a related quantitative field.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a keen attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including advanced formulas and data manipulation.
• Basic understanding of data analysis principles and statistical concepts.
• Familiarity with data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) is a plus.
• Basic knowledge of SQL for data extraction is advantageous.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and be self-motivated in a remote setting.
• Eagerness to learn and adapt to new technologies and analytical methods.
• Team player mentality with a collaborative spirit.
• A strong interest in data analysis and business intelligence.

• Assist senior analysts in collecting, cleaning, and organizing large datasets from various sources.
• Perform basic data analysis to identify trends, patterns, and insights.
• Create clear and informative reports, dashboards, and visualizations using BI tools.
• Support the development and maintenance of data models and database structures.
• Help in interpreting data findings and translating them into actionable recommendations for business stakeholders.
• Conduct research on industry trends and competitor analysis based on available data.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to data-driven decision-making discussions.
• Learn and apply new data analysis techniques and tools under guidance.
• Ensure data accuracy and integrity in all reporting and analysis activities.
• Prepare presentations summarizing analytical findings.
• Assist in testing and validating data processes and reports.
• Document data sources, methodologies, and findings.

• Recent graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Statistics, Mathematics, Economics, Computer Science, or a related quantitative field.
• Basic understanding of statistical concepts and data analysis principles.
• Familiarity with data analysis tools such as Excel, SQL, and BI platforms (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) is a plus.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Good written and verbal communication skills, suitable for a remote team.
• Ability to learn quickly and adapt to new technologies.
• Proactive attitude and eagerness to contribute.
• Must have a reliable internet connection and a conducive remote work environment.
• Demonstrated interest in data science, business intelligence, or analytics.
• Comfortable working independently and as part of a remote team.

• Design and develop innovative drug formulations for oral, injectable, topical, and other dosage forms.
• Conduct pre-formulation studies to characterize drug substances and excipients.
• Optimize formulations to achieve desired physicochemical properties, bioavailability, and stability.
• Develop and validate analytical methods for characterizing drug products.
• Oversee formulation scale-up and technology transfer to manufacturing.
• Troubleshoot formulation-related issues and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with analytical, DMPK, regulatory, and manufacturing teams to advance projects.
• Prepare and review formulation development reports, protocols, and regulatory documentation.
• Stay abreast of new technologies and trends in pharmaceutical formulation and drug delivery.
• Manage research projects, timelines, and budgets effectively.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior scientists.
• Conduct literature reviews and competitive landscaping related to formulation strategies.
• Ensure compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and other regulatory guidelines.
• Present research findings to internal teams and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to the strategic planning of drug product development programs.

• Lead and manage multiple scientific research projects in environmental science.
• Develop strategic research plans and roadmaps.
• Supervise and mentor a team of remote research scientists and technicians.
• Oversee experimental design, data collection, and analysis.
• Write and submit grant proposals to secure research funding.
• Foster collaborations with external research institutions and industry partners.
• Ensure scientific integrity and adherence to research ethics.
• Disseminate research findings through publications, presentations, and reports.
• Manage research budgets and resources effectively.
• Stay abreast of advancements in environmental science and research methodologies.

• Ph.D. in Environmental Science, Ecology, Climate Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of research experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership or management role.
• Proven track record in securing research grants and managing large-scale research projects.
• Expertise in scientific research methodologies, data analysis, and interpretation.
• Strong leadership, team-building, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including grant writing and presentation experience.
• Proficiency in scientific software and data analysis tools.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage diverse research portfolios remotely.
• Experience in publishing research in high-impact journals.
• A passion for environmental sustainability and scientific innovation.

• Planning, executing, and finalizing R&D projects according to strict deadlines and within budget, utilizing appropriate tools and techniques.
• Defining project scope, goals, and deliverables in collaboration with senior management and stakeholders.
• Developing comprehensive project plans, including resource allocation, timelines, and risk assessments.
• Managing project budgets, tracking expenditures, and ensuring financial accountability.
• Coordinating the efforts of internal team members and third-party vendors or consultants.
• Communicating project updates, issues, and risks to stakeholders through regular reports and meetings.
• Facilitating effective communication and collaboration among remote R&D teams, including scientists, researchers, and technical staff.
• Identifying and managing project dependencies and critical paths.
• Proactively managing changes in project scope, identifying potential crises, and devising contingency plans.
• Ensuring that all projects are delivered according to quality standards and regulatory requirements.

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Biotechnology) or a related technical field.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in project management within the R&D sector, preferably in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry.
• Proven track record of successfully managing complex, multi-faceted R&D projects from initiation to closure.
• Strong understanding of research methodologies, scientific processes, and regulatory landscapes (e.g., FDA, EMA).
• Excellent knowledge of project management principles and methodologies (e.g., Agile, Waterfall).
• Proficiency with project management software (e.g., MS Project, Jira, Asana).
• Exceptional leadership, communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, adapted for a remote working environment.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate remote teams, manage stakeholders, and resolve conflicts effectively.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• PMP or PRINCE2 certification is highly desirable.