Scientist – Financial Governance

About the role

The World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF) is seeking a Scientist specialized in Financial Governance to lead and support research projects that strengthen forest governance and sustainable natural resource management. The role combines scientific oversight with financial stewardship, ensuring that research activities meet rigorous scientific standards while achieving their financial objectives.

Key responsibilities

• Provide scientific guidance to ensure research concepts and methods are robust and up‑to‑date.
• Collaborate with theme coordinators and CIFOR teams to define and implement emerging research activities.
• Write, supervise, and mentor the production of peer‑reviewed publications and other scientific 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 funding through grant writing, fundraising, and donor engagement.
• Plan, monitor, and report on research activities, including budgeting and financial reporting.

Required profile

• PhD in a relevant discipline (e.g., natural resource management, social sciences).
• Proven experience in collaborative natural resource management or social‑science research.
• Track record of successful budget management across multiple projects.
• Strong publication record in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Demonstrated success in resource mobilization, fundraising, and proposal development.
• Fluent written and spoken English; additional international language(s) advantageous.
• Experience working with multiple partners and multidisciplinary teams in developing‑country contexts.

Required skills

• Budget management
• Grant writing
• Fundraising
• Financial reporting