Scientific Advisor – Financial Governance

About the role

The World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF) seeks a senior scientist to provide scientific guidance on financial governance for forest and natural‑resource research. The role combines high‑level research oversight with strategic fundraising and partnership development.

Key responsibilities

• Ensure research concepts and methods meet the highest scientific standards and reflect up‑to‑date approaches.
• Collaborate with theme coordinators to define and implement emerging research activities.
• Write, supervise, and disseminate scientific publications and 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 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., natural‑resource management, social sciences).
• Proven experience in collaborative research, project management across multiple regions, and budget development.
• Strong record of peer‑reviewed publications.
• Demonstrated success in resource mobilization, fundraising, and proposal writing.
• Fluent written and spoken English; additional languages are a plus.
• Experience working with diverse partners and multidisciplinary teams in developing‑country contexts.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to influence global forest governance research.
• Collaborative, multicultural research environment.
• Access to leading experts and international networks.