Scientist – Land and Forest Tenure Reforms

About the role

The World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF) is seeking a Scientist to lead research on land and forest tenure reforms. This senior‑level position will guide scientific work, develop partnerships, and secure funding to advance forest governance in Kenya and beyond.

Key responsibilities

• Provide scientific guidance ensuring research concepts and methods meet the highest scientific standards.
• Collaborate closely with theme coordinators and leaders within CIFOR to define and implement research activities in emerging interest areas.
• Write and supervise publications and other scientific communications.
• Lead and supervise project capacity‑building initiatives.
• Supervise students and staff and mentor junior project scientists.
• Represent CIFOR in national, regional, and global forums related to forest governance.
• Develop and maintain constructive partnerships with stakeholders.
• Lead searches for additional funding in relevant research areas.
• Plan, monitor and manage research activities, including financing.
• Lead, coordinate and contribute to donor reporting.

Required profile

• PhD in a relevant discipline.
• Experience in collaborative natural resource management or social‑science research.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and budgets successfully.
• Record of peer‑reviewed publications.
• Demonstrated experience in resource mobilization, fundraising and proposal development.
• Successful track record obtaining donor funding for research proposals.
• Fluent spoken and written English; additional international language(s) an advantage.
• Experience working with multiple partners and conducting research/fieldwork in developing countries.
• Experience in multicultural and multidisciplinary research teams.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; commitment to information sharing and continuous improvement.

Required skills