Postdoctoral Fellow – Soil Science

About the role

The World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF) is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellow to advance soil science research within its Nairobi office. This full‑time position offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge natural resource management projects and collaborate with an international network of scientists.

Key responsibilities

• Provide scientific guidance ensuring research concepts and methods meet the highest standards.
• Collaborate with theme coordinators and CIFOR teams 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.
• Develop and maintain constructive partnerships with stakeholders.
• Identify and secure additional research funding through proposal development and donor engagement.
• Plan, monitor, and report on research activities, including financial management and donor reporting.

Required profile

• PhD in Soil Science, Agronomy, Environmental Science, or a closely related discipline.
• Proven experience in collaborative natural‑resource management or social‑science research.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects, develop budgets, and meet financial objectives.
• Strong publication record in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Experience in resource mobilization, fundraising, and grant writing.
• Fluent spoken and written English; additional languages are an advantage.
• Successful track record working in multicultural, multidisciplinary research teams.

Required skills

• Advanced scientific research methods and data analysis.
• Project and budget management.
• Grant proposal development and donor reporting.
• Scientific writing and communication.
• Mentoring and team leadership.