Temporary Research Assistant

Reference number: 202553
Job status: In-progress
Job category: Temporary Position
Duty station: Nairobi, Kenya
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CIFOR-ICRAF
The Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) and World Agroforestry (ICRAF) envision a more equitable world where trees in all landscapes, from drylands to the humid tropics, enhance the environment and well-being for all. CIFOR and ICRAF are non-profit science institutions that build and apply evidence to today’s most pressing challenges, including energy insecurity and the climate and biodiversity crises. Over a combined total of 65 years, we have built vast knowledge on forests and trees outside of forests in agricultural landscapes (agroforestry). Using a multidisciplinary approach, we seek to improve lives and to protect and restore ecosystems. Our work focuses on innovative research, partnering for impact, and engaging with stakeholders on policies and practices to benefit people and the planet. Founded in 1993 and 1978, CIFOR and ICRAF are members of CGIAR, a global research partnership for a food secure future dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing food and nutrition security, and improving natural resources.

Overview

The Research Assistant will play a vital support role within the Agroecology Theme, facilitating the effective implementation of research project activities. The position will support various scientists working on projects within the Agroecology Theme by contributing to data collection and reporting, research documentation, logistics, and data management.

Duties and responsibilities

1.Fieldwork Documentation

• Capture and document key field activities, discussions, and observations through structured field notes and photo documentation to support reporting and knowledge sharing.

2.Data Collation and Reporting

• Compile and synthesize key points, action items, and outputs from field activities, workshops, and training sessions to contribute to technical reports and project documentation.

3.Digital Documentation and Knowledge Product Management

• Support the organization and management of digital research outputs and project materials by maintaining well-structured folders and archives on SharePoint.

4.Logistical Support

• Assist in organizing and coordinating logistics for field activities, workshops, seminars, and training sessions, including participant management, materials preparation, and onsite support.

5.Other Duties

• Perform any other tasks as assigned by scientists or administrators within the Agroecology Theme to support research and program implementation.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in agricultural related field, environmental science, development studies or related field
• 6 months to 1 year experience.
• Proficiency in documentation, note-taking, and photo reporting
• Familiarity with digital file management tools such as SharePoint
• Strong organizational and logistical coordination skills
• Ability to synthesize information into clear, structured formats for reporting and knowledge sharing.
  

Education, knowledge and experience

•Bachelor’s degree in agricultural related field, environmental science, development studies or related field
•6 months to 1 year experience.
•Proficiency in documentation, note-taking, and photo reporting
•Familiarity with digital file management tools such as SharePoint
•Strong organizational and logistical coordination skills
•Ability to synthesize information into clear, structured formats for reporting and knowledge sharing.

Terms and conditions

•This is a temporary position for Locally Recruited Staff (LRS). CIFOR-ICRAF offers competitive remuneration in local currency commensurate with skills and experience.
•The appointment will be for 6 months.
•The duty station will be in Nairobi, Kenya CIFOR-ICRAF HQ Offices.

Application process

The application deadline is 01 Aug 2025
We will acknowledge all applications, but will contact only short-listed candidates.