Research Associate III

The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) works to improve food security and reduce poverty in developing countries through research for better and more sustainable use of livestock. ILRI is a CGIAR research centre - part of a global research partnership for a food-secure future. This Research Associate III role supports the planning and implementation of research trials focused on feed and forage production, utilization, and evaluation for livestock, poultry, and fish. The position is based in Nairobi, Kenya.

Key Responsibilities

• Support planning and implementation of feed and forage production trials, including crop-residue processing and evaluation of improved feed ingredients.
• Assist in preparation, processing, and laboratory analysis of feed, forage, and FDP samples (nutrient profiling, digestibility, and safety assessments).
• Contribute to the setup, management, and monitoring of animal, poultry, and fish feeding trials, ensuring accurate measurement of performance indicators.
• Conduct field data collection, sampling, and initial sample preparation for quality assessment, including on-station and on-farm forage variety trials.
• Compile, clean, and manage field, laboratory, survey, and trial datasets; perform basic data analysis and contribute to scientific reports and communication materials.
• Support surveys and stakeholder engagements related to forage production, feed use, adoption constraints, markets, and regulatory requirements.
• Assist in organizing trainings, field days, workshops, and other knowledge-sharing activities with farmers, private sector actors, and service providers.
• Provide logistical, operational, and supervisory support for research activities, ensuring proper use and maintenance of field, farm, and laboratory equipment.
• Perform any other related duties assigned.

Qualifications and Requirements

The ideal candidate must meet the following requirements:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in animal science, animal nutrition, feed science and technology, agricultural biotechnology, or a closely related field.
• Experience: Five years of relevant experience.
• Technical Skills:
  • Hands-on experience in agricultural research, livestock or aquaculture nutrition, feed and forage development, laboratory analysis, or related areas.
  • Practical involvement in field trials, laboratory assays, or on-farm research is essential.
  • Experience working with farmers, private-sector actors, government agencies, or development partners is desirable.
  • Prior exposure to data collection, data management, and basic statistical analysis is an advantage.
• Core Competencies:
  • Strong practical skills in field experimentation, sample collection, and laboratory procedures.
  • Ability to manage multiple activities across farm, laboratory, and field settings.
  • Competence in data entry, cleaning, and use of statistical or spreadsheet software.
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.
  • Strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and commitment to maintaining high-quality records.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
  • Willingness to travel frequently to field sites.
• Certifications (Added Advantage): Certification in laboratory safety, agrochemical handling, or animal welfare.