Senior 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 natural resource management programmes. Based in Nairobi, the role combines scientific leadership, project management and partnership development to advance evidence‑based policies for sustainable forest governance.

Key responsibilities

• Provide scientific guidance ensuring research concepts and methods meet the highest standards.
• Collaborate with theme coordinators to define and implement research activities in emerging interest areas.
• Write, supervise and publish peer‑reviewed articles 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 and donors.
• Identify and secure additional funding, develop proposals and manage budgets across multiple projects.
• Plan, monitor and report on research activities, including donor reporting.

Required profile

• PhD in a relevant discipline (e.g., demography, epidemiology, social sciences).
• Proven experience in collaborative natural‑resource management or social‑science research.
• Track record of managing several projects simultaneously across regions.
• Successful history of budget management and meeting financial objectives.
• Strong publication record in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Demonstrated ability to mobilise resources, write proposals and obtain donor funding.
• Fluent spoken and written English; additional international language(s) an advantage.
• Experience working with multiple partners and multidisciplinary teams in developing‑country contexts.

Required skills

• Fluent English (written and spoken).

What we offer

• Opportunity to shape high‑impact research on forest governance and human health.
• Collaborative, multicultural research environment.
• Access to CIFOR’s global network of partners and donors.