Nutrition Scientist (Research)

About the role

The World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF) is seeking a full‑time Nutrition Scientist to lead and support research on nutrition within agroforestry systems. Based in Nairobi, the role combines scientific oversight, capacity building, and stakeholder engagement to advance evidence‑based solutions.

Key responsibilities

• Provide scientific guidance ensuring research concepts and methods meet the highest standards.
• Collaborate with theme coordinators to define and implement emerging research activities.
• Write, supervise and disseminate peer‑reviewed publications and other scientific communications.
• Lead capacity‑building initiatives and mentor junior scientists, students and staff.
• Represent CIFOR in national, regional and global forums on forest governance and nutrition.
• Develop and maintain constructive partnerships with diverse stakeholders.
• Identify and secure additional funding for relevant research areas.
• Plan, monitor and manage research activities, including budgeting and donor reporting.

Required profile

• PhD in nutrition, agroforestry, natural resource management or a related discipline.
• Proven experience in collaborative natural‑resource or social‑science research.
• Successful track record of managing budgets across multiple projects.
• Strong record of peer‑reviewed publications.
• Demonstrated ability in fundraising, proposal development and donor reporting.
• Fluent spoken and written English; additional language(s) an advantage.
• Experience working with multiple partners and multidisciplinary teams in developing‑country contexts.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with a commitment to knowledge sharing.

Required skills

• Budget management
• Research design and methodology
• Scientific writing and publication
• Fundraising and proposal development
• Project coordination and monitoring