Research Technician – ICRISAT

Kenya

Organization: CIFOR - Center for International Forestry Research
Location: Kenya
Grade: Mid level - Mid level
Occupational Groups:
- Technology, Electronics and Mechanics
- Scientist and Researcher
Closing Date: 2025-09-24

Reference number: 202563
Job status: In-progress
Job category: Local Position
Duty station: Kiboko, 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.

CIFOR-ICRAF is looking for a

Research Technician - ICRISAT

Overview

Research Technician will plan and execute demonstration protocols and participatory variety selection trials for groundnut and pigeon pea, sorghum, pearl millet and chickpea.

Duties and responsibilities

Document demand for trials seed production as guided by scientists and coordinate the seed production.
Maintain seed inventory and supervise short term trial seed storage.
Design and pack trials under the direction of a scientist.
Establish trials in the designated testing sites
Ensure trials and demonstrations are established on time and planted according to trial design.
Ensure trials are well managed for quality data.
Ensure the accuracy of data entry and consolidation for analysis by the Scientist for informed decision-making.
Learn and operate the Breeding Management System (BMS) in order to manage routine operations, data upload, data curation, cleaning and preliminary analysis.
Implement timely digital data capture using the relevant tools and software
Manage a team of casual laborers involved in planting weeding, harvesting and trial processing, seed processing, see inventory, trial packaging, trial distribution.
Ensure the casual team receives the necessary training to conduct their tasks.
Ensure safety and hygiene standards are adhered to and well managed.
Assist in training partners on a need basis and coordinate with the supervisor.
Manage printing of packets, labels, tags, and seed inventory.
Participate in exhibitions, demonstrations, and field days.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science in Agriculture or a related field
At least 2 years of experience in a research institution and an understanding of plant breeding
Experience in a research environment, specifically in field layout, data analysis, and good crop husbandry practices
Sound interpersonal and problem-solving skills
Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as in a team setting.
Candidates with less experience but proven ability to deliver may be considered
Preferably having experience of working in multi-cultural and interdisciplinary teams.
Experience in an international organization environment will be an added advantage
Practical experience in field experimental work
Ability to prioritize and organize work efficiently and independently
Ability to meet deadlines and work under pressure with minimal supervision
Good interpersonal skills, integrity, honesty and self-motivation
Computer literacy in MS Office.
Fluency in English is an added advantage.

Education, knowledge and experience

•Bachelor of Science in Agriculture or a related field
•At least 2 years of experience in a research institution and an understanding of plant breeding
•Experience in a research environment, specifically in field layout, data analysis, and good crop husbandry practices
•Sound interpersonal and problem-solving skills
•Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as in a team setting.
•Candidates with less experience but proven ability to deliver may be considered
•Preferably having experience of working in multi-cultural and interdisciplinary teams.
•Experience in an international organization environment will be an added advantage
•Practical experience in field experimental work
•Ability to prioritize and organize work efficiently and independently
•Ability to meet deadlines and work under pressure with minimal supervision
•Good interpersonal skills, integrity, honesty and self-motivation
•Computer literacy in MS Office.
•Fluency in English is an added advantage.

Terms and conditions

•This is a Locally Recruited Staff (LRS) position and a contractual role for a period of 36 months (3 years), renewable based on the performance funding availability and the institute’s continuing need for the position
•CIFOR-ICRAF offers competitive remuneration in local currency commensurate with skills and experience.
•The duty station will be in Kiboko, Makueni County, Kenya ICRISAT Offices.

Application process

The application deadline is 24 Sep 2025
We will acknowledge all applications, but will contact only short-listed candidates.

We do our best to provide you the most accurate info, but closing dates may be wrong on our site. Please check on the recruiting organization's page for the exact info. Candidates are responsible for complying with deadlines and are encouraged to submit applications well ahead.

Before applying, please make sure that you have read the requirements for the position and that you qualify.
Applications from non-qualifying applicants will most likely be discarded by the recruiting manager.

Apply