Scientist – Human Demography/Epidemiology

About the role

The World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF) is seeking a senior scientist to lead research on human demography and epidemiology within its forest governance programmes. The role combines scientific leadership, project management and capacity‑building activities in a collaborative, multicultural environment.

Key responsibilities

• Provide scientific guidance ensuring research concepts and methods meet the highest standards.
• Collaborate with theme coordinators and CIFOR partners to define and implement emerging research activities.
• Write, supervise and mentor the production of scientific publications and communications.
• Lead capacity‑building initiatives and supervise students, staff and junior scientists.
• Represent CIFOR in national, regional and global forums on forest governance.
• Develop and maintain constructive partnerships with stakeholders.
• Identify and secure additional research funding; lead proposal development and donor reporting.
• Plan, monitor and manage research activities, including budgeting and financial oversight.

Required profile

• PhD in a relevant discipline (e.g., demography, epidemiology, social sciences, natural resource management).
• Proven experience in collaborative natural‑resource or social‑science research, preferably across multiple regions.
• Strong record of peer‑reviewed publications.
• Demonstrated success in resource mobilisation, fundraising and budget management for multiple projects.
• Fluent spoken and written English; additional international language(s) an advantage.
• Experience working with diverse partners and multidisciplinary teams in developing‑country contexts.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Required skills