Senior Scientist - Soil Science

About the role

The World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF) is seeking a Senior Scientist to lead soil science research that supports sustainable natural resource management across Africa and beyond. The role combines scientific leadership, project coordination, and partnership development to advance the Centre’s research agenda.

Key responsibilities

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

Required profile

• PhD in a relevant discipline (e.g., soil science, agronomy, environmental science).
• Proven experience in collaborative natural resource management or social‑science research.
• Track record of managing multiple projects and budgets across regions or continents.
• Strong publication record, especially in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Demonstrated success in resource mobilization, fundraising, and proposal development.
• Fluent spoken and written English; additional languages are an advantage.
• Experience working with multiple partners and conducting fieldwork in developing countries.
• Experience in multicultural, multidisciplinary research teams with excellent interpersonal skills.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to lead high‑impact research in a globally recognized institution.
• Collaborative, multicultural work environment.
• Access to extensive networks of partners and donors.