250 Research Fellows jobs in Nairobi

Background:
The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) invites applications for the internationally recruited position of
Postdoctoral Research Fellow - Biotechnological Innovations for Red Palm Weevil Control.
The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is a not-for-profit institution that generates agricultural innovations to meet Africa's most pressing challenges of hunger, malnutrition, poverty, and natural resource degradation. Working with various partners across sub-Saharan Africa, we improve livelihoods, enhance food and nutrition security, increase employment, and preserve natural resource integrity. IITA is a member of CGIAR, a global agriculture research partnership for a food-secure future. Please visit for more information on IITA.

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), as part of the
Consortium for Red Palm Weevil Control (C4RPWC)
- a global, multi-institutional program led by ICARDA- is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to contribute to innovative, science-driven solutions against the Red Palm Weevil (RPW). RPW
(Rhynchophorus ferrugineus)
, one of the most destructive invasive pests worldwide, poses a grave threat to date, coconut, and oil palm cultivation. Since the 1980s, it has caused catastrophic economic losses, degraded ecosystems, and undermined the livelihoods of farming communities across the Middle East, North Africa, and beyond. With its rapidspread into Sub-Saharan Africa and its adaptability to multiple palm species, RPW jeopardizes food security, biodiversity, and industries valued at over $20-30 billion globally.

This postdoctoral position offers an opportunity to advance cutting-edge biotechnological innovations, such as RNA interference (RNAi) and gene editing, that will contribute to scalable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly solutions to protect palms, rural livelihoods, and ecosystems.

Position Responsibilities
The
Post-Doctoral Fellow
will be responsible for developing and executing biotechnological strategies, including RNAi and gene editing for controlling RPW, working closely with internal research teams, external partners, and stakeholders within the C4RPWC program. The successful candidate will report to the Lead of the Biotechnology Program at IITA. The tasks will include:

• Design, conduct, and optimize laboratory and field experiments on RNA interference (RNAi)-based pest control strategies, including both direct applications (e.g., dsRNA nanoparticles, injections) and plant-expressed dsRNA systems
• Develop a transformation and gene editing system for date palm, African palm, and sugarcane
• Generate gene-edited events with enhanced resistance against RPW infestations
• Develop and validate molecular and genomic tools for monitoring efficacy, insect resistance, and environmental safety
• Collect, analyse, and interpret molecular, genetic, and ecological data related to RPW control interventions
• Conduct bioinformatic analyses of RPW genomes, transcriptomes, and gene targets relevant to RNAi and gene editing
• Collaborate with international, multi-disciplinary teams across C4RPWC partner institutions
• Provide technical guidance and training to graduate students, technicians, and national program partners in molecular entomology and biotechnology
• Contribute to building local capacity for biotechnology-based pest management in partner countries
• Support the coordination and monitoring of IITA's contributions to the RPW control program
• Prepare high-quality research outputs, including peer-reviewed publications and technical briefs
• Prepare progress reports, presentations, and knowledge-sharing materials for donors, partners, and stakeholders
• Engage in outreach and science communication to demonstrate program impact on livelihoods, ecosystems, and sustainable pest management
• Explore novel delivery platforms for biotechnological control agents with emphasis on scalability and field applicability
• Coordinate the regulatory compliance and stewardship for the project
• Support the development of grant proposals to secure funding for further research in gene editing and manage research projects effectively
• Actively participate in monthly meetings, annual reviews, and planning meetings and contribute to strategic research planning
• Host visitors, donors, and collaborators, providing lab tours and discussing the project's progress
• Adhere to institutional policies and perform additional tasks as required

Requirements
Educational Qualifications
The candidate should have a Ph.D. in Plant Biotechnology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, or a related field with a focus on gene editing technologies. Experience in plant molecular biology, plant engineering, or plant biotechnology, with demonstrated experience in gene editing and RNAi.

Core Competencies

• Research Excellence:
• Deep understanding of RNAi and gene editing and their application in crop improvement
• Proficiency in molecular techniques, including vector design, cloning, PCR, and sequencing
• Strong experience in plant tissue culture and genetic transformation
• Excellent data analysis and bioinformatics skills
• Innovation: Ability to develop novel approaches to genetic engineering and problem-solving
• Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams and external partners
• Communication: Skilled in disseminating research outcomes to scientific audiences
• Project Management: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage the project
• Writing Skills: Proven track record of publication in peer-reviewed journals

Benefits
General information:
The contract will be for an initial period of two years. IITA offers an internationally competitive remuneration package paid in US Dollars.

Applications:
Applications must include a cover letter which should address how the candidate's background/experience relates to the specific duties of the position applied for, curriculum vitae, and names and addresses of three professional referees (which must include either the Head of the applicant's current or previous organization or applicant's direct Supervisor/Superior at his/her present or former place of work). The application should be addressed to the Director, People and Culture. Please complete our online application form using this link:

Closing Date:
10th October 2025

IITA is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse workforce, particularly welcoming applications from women.
While all applications will be acknowledged, please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
.

Based in Nairobi, SEI Africa hosts a diverse team of multinational experts who combine scientific research with participatory approaches to co-develop and share knowledge, build partnerships and influence policy for resilient development. Our work focuses on climate adaptation, mitigation and finance, water and natural resource management, and urban sustainability, supported by cross-cutting research on gender and social equity. SEI Africa currently operates in 16 countries, managing around 20 projects with varying completion periods.

*The role *
The Research Fellow will lead research, development and deployment of climate adaptation and mitigation projects, as well as finance approaches and mechanisms across Africa. Working in the Climate and Energy cluster, you will engage with national and sub-national policymakers, financial service providers, green technology providers, MSMEs, civil society organizations and climate-vulnerable communities.

Main focus areas:

• Researching, co-designing and co-developing climate-related projects, including financing components, tailored to local adaptation needs.
• Collaborate with finance experts, public and private investors, the financial community and green technology providers to design and implement innovative financial solutions.
• Advocate for the role of finance in enhancing adaptive capacity, building resilience and reducing vulnerabilities to climate impacts.

*Key duties and responsibilities *
:***

• Develop new project ideas and collaborate with SEI researchers globally.

• Conduct research on finance for sustainable development, focusing on:

• project- and business-level, including demand-side finance;

• the role of blended finance and risk mitigation;

• sustainable economic activities (e.g. renewable energy, transport, agriculture, adaptation, nature restoration, biodiversity).

• Lead and support fundraising activities with diverse funders.

• Contribute to program communications and outreach.
• Build partnerships with research centres, institutions and financial actors.
• Engage with regional and international climate finance for development networks.
• Produce high-quality research outputs and publications.
• Strengthen SEI's presence by cultivating networks with partners and stakeholders.

*Who you are *
We are looking for a researcher with proven expertise in developing and deploying climate adaptation solutions and related finance instruments at the local scale, using inclusive, participatory approaches.

*Qualifications and experience: *

• PhD in a relevant field (e.g. economics, finance, business, public policy) with at least five years' relevant working experience, or Master's degree with at least eight years of relevant working experience.
• Experience in sustainable business, finance or international development (industry, consultancy, finance, international organizations or academia).
• Track record of co-designing inclusive, bankable adaptation solutions at the implementation scale.
• Strong understanding of adaptation economics.
• Proven record in developing financial solutions for locally led adaptation.
• Demonstrated fundraising success across varied sources (e.g. IKI, UKPACT, NORAD, SIDA, UN agencies, EU Horizon).
• Experience with mixed-methods research tools and methodologies.
• Publication record including academic and non-academic outputs.
• Experience in interdisciplinary projects.
• Excellent fluency in spoken and written English.

*Desirable: *

• Knowledge of international finance flows for adaptation/mitigation.
• Project management experience in a support to research context.
• Regional experience in Africa.
• Working knowledge of an African language; French is an asset.

Personal skills:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Excellent planning, organizational and time management skills.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a client-focused environment.
• Positive influence on teams and individuals.
• Commitment to SEI's values, including respect, trust and high-quality work.
• Constructive approach to collaboration and feedback.

Our offer
At SEI Africa, we offer a stimulating position in an international environment. You will be part of a leading multinational, multidisciplinary and multilingual team of experts in an organization where the well-being and development of our employees is a high priority. We value diversity and creativity at the core of what we do. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply. Our ambition is to provide a safe, professional, and creative workspace for all.

Employment at SEI Africa includes:

• Flexible working hours, 37.5-hour work week
• 30 days of vacation
• Monthly pension contribution of 10 % of the base salary
• Monthly housing allowance of 500 USD
• Opportunities for professional growth and development
• Being part of a world-leading organization that works to bridge science to policy to practice in the fields of the environment and development.

Additional Information
This is a two-year fixed-term employment with possibility of extension depending on funding availability and performance. It is a full-time position with placement at SEI Africa, in Nairobi, Kenya

We apply a standard three-month probation period. Start date is as soon as possible or by arrangement. The position is open to all applicants and SEI Africa will support the process of obtaining a work or residence permit.

SEI has a hybrd work environment, which allows employees to share their time between the SEI office and in-country home.

SEI is an equal opportunity employer, and we consider all applicants on the basis of qualifications and competencies, regardless of and not limited to race, national origin, religious beliefs, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability and/or marital status. We are committed to ensuring diversity and equality within our institute, and applicants from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

How To Apply
We are reviewing applications and interviewing on an ongoing basis, so please submit your application as soon as possible, but no later than
30 th September 2025
, 23:59 CEST.

We only accept applications through our recruitment system; please apply online using the button below and submit the following in English:

• Cover letter highlighting relevant qualifications and experience (two pages maximum)
• Curriculum vitae (three pages maximum)
• Publication list

Use the button below to submit your application. Applications sent via email will not be accepted.
Questions?
For inquiries about the position, please contact:

Anderson Kehbila, Research Fellow:

For inquiries about the recruitment process, please contact:

My Persson, Recruitment and Competence Specialist: .

About SEI
Stockholm Environment Institute is an international non-profit research institute that tackles environment and sustainable development challenges.

We empower partners to meet these challenges through cutting-edge research, knowledge, tools and capacity building. Scientific quality and integrity are foundations of our work. Partnership is at the heart of our approach, leading to change that lasts.

Our work connects science to policy and practice, aiming to drive tangible impacts. It spans climate change, natural resources, water, air, and health, and addresses questions of governance, innovation, finance, poverty, gender equality and social equity.

We are committed to transparency and full disclosure of our funding. The Government of Sweden is our largest funder, and we also receive funds from a range of public research funders, philanthropic foundations, bilateral and multilateral development agencies, governments, NGOs and other partners.

Through SEI's HQ and seven centres around the world, we engage with policy, practice and development action for a sustainable, prosperous future for all.

• 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

• Lead independent research projects in materials science.
• Design, conduct, and analyze experiments related to material synthesis and characterization.
• Develop novel materials with tailored properties for specific applications.
• Publish research findings in high-impact peer-reviewed journals.
• Present research at national and international conferences.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate research into potential products.
• Mentor junior researchers and provide scientific guidance.
• Stay current with the latest advancements and trends in materials science.
• Contribute to the development of intellectual property and patent applications.

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field.
• 7+ years of post-doctoral or industry research experience in materials science.
• Demonstrated expertise in at least one area of materials science (e.g., polymers, ceramics, metals, nanomaterials).
• Proficiency in various materials characterization techniques.
• Strong publication record and presentation experience.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Effective communication and collaboration abilities.
• Proven ability to conduct independent research and manage projects remotely.

• Design and conduct in vitro biochemical and cellular assays to evaluate drug candidates.
• Investigate the mechanism of action of novel therapeutic compounds.
• Identify and validate new drug targets using a range of biochemical and molecular biology techniques.
• Develop and optimize bioanalytical methods for quantifying drug and target engagement.
• Analyze and interpret complex experimental data, presenting findings and recommendations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and DMPK.
• Contribute to the preparation of regulatory documents and scientific publications.
• Manage multiple research projects simultaneously, ensuring timely progress and high-quality results.
• Stay current with scientific literature and emerging technologies in drug discovery and biochemistry.
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to a collaborative research environment.

• PhD in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of post-doctoral research experience in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry.
• Extensive experience in assay development, enzyme kinetics, protein purification, and characterization.
• Strong understanding of molecular biology techniques, cell-based assays, and signaling pathways.
• Proven track record of successful drug discovery contributions, evidenced by publications or patents.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with a meticulous attention to detail.
• Superb written and verbal communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a globally distributed, remote team.
• Experience with biostatistics and data analysis software.
• Demonstrated ability to think creatively and innovatively.

• Lead and mentor a team of postdoctoral fellows, research assistants, and technicians in a remote setting.
• Design, develop, and implement cutting-edge research projects in areas such as oncology, infectious diseases, or neurobiology.
• Oversee experimental design, data collection, and rigorous data analysis.
• Secure research funding through competitive grant applications and collaborations.
• Publish research findings in high-impact, peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Present research outcomes at international scientific conferences and internal meetings.
• Collaborate with internal and external collaborators, including industry partners, to advance research objectives.
• Ensure compliance with all laboratory safety protocols, ethical guidelines, and regulatory requirements.
• Manage research budgets, equipment, and resources effectively.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific advancements and methodologies in the relevant field.

• Analyze diverse biological datasets, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics data.
• Develop, implement, and validate bioinformatics pipelines and algorithms for data analysis.
• Utilize statistical methods and machine learning techniques to identify patterns and derive biological insights.
• Collaborate closely with experimental scientists to design studies, interpret results, and contribute to manuscript preparation.
• Contribute to the development of new research hypotheses and experimental strategies.
• Manage and organize large biological datasets, ensuring data integrity and reproducibility.
• Develop custom scripts and software tools to support research needs.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in bioinformatics, computational biology, and relevant biological fields.
• Present research findings at scientific meetings and contribute to publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Participate in grant writing efforts to secure funding for research projects.

• Ph.D. in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Computer Science, Statistics, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 4-6 years of relevant research experience in bioinformatics or computational biology.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python and R, with experience in relevant libraries (e.g., Biopython, NumPy, SciPy, ggplot2).
• Experience with next-generation sequencing (NGS) data analysis.
• Solid understanding of statistical methods and machine learning algorithms.
• Familiarity with Unix/Linux operating systems and command-line tools.
• Experience with database management and query languages (e.g., SQL).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote team environment.