Job Title: Research Associate
Organisation: Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) and World Agroforestry (ICRAF)
Duty Station: Kampala, Uganda
About Organisation:
The Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) and World Agroforestry (ICRAF) envision a more equitable world where trees in all landscapes, from drylands to the humid tropics, enhance the environment and well-being for all. CIFOR and ICRAF are non-profit science institutions that build and apply evidence to today’s most pressing challenges, including energy insecurity and the climate and biodiversity crises. Over a combined total of 65 years, we have built vast knowledge on forests and trees outside of forests in agricultural landscapes (agroforestry). Using a multidisciplinary approach, we seek to improve lives and to protect and restore ecosystems. Our work focuses on innovative research, partnering for impact, and engaging with stakeholders on policies and practices to benefit people and the planet. Founded in 1993 and 1978, CIFOR and ICRAF are members of CGIAR, a global research partnership for a food secure future dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing food and nutrition security, and improving natural resources.
Job Summary: Sub Saharan African (SSA) countries have committed to restoring millions of hectares of their degraded lands to contribute to the African Forest Landscape (AFR100) and the Bonn Challenge initiatives. RTRP-Seed will support key stakeholders in five SSA countries, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda and Burkina Faso, towards contributing to these targets by strengthening the native tree species (NTS) seed supply systems. This will assist country efforts to address climate change, biodiversity conservation and livelihoods. Purpose of the Role Participate and support RTRP*) technical and limited managerial activities together with the RTRP staff in Uganda, participate in and contribute to the overall management of the RTRP Project under supervision of the Tree Breeding and Seed Source Scientist based in Nairobi and the country representative of ICRAF-Uganda.
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
On core technical aspects:
- Assist with surveys related to enabling institutional and policy environment
- Assist with dissemination of knowledge and know how for priority species and landscapes
- Assist in seed demand estimation for priority species.
- Assist in seed source exploration and establishment for priority species
- Assist in seed source development and field gene bank conservation in Uganda
- Assist in maintaining networking with relevant institutions.
- Supervise other technical staff of the project.
- On coordination, liaison and capacity development
- Participate in co-ordination meetings as required.
- Assist and participate in the work of technical consultants/expert service providers.
- Assist implementation of training activities.
- Provide relevant assistance to stakeholders in the technical fields of the project
On managerial aspect:
- Assist in procurement and development of physical infrastructure.
- Assist in the administration of the project.
- Assist and coordinate internal programme meetings as required.
- Identify constraints in the implementation of activities and advise on possible solutions to overcoming such constraints
Qualifications, Skills and Experience:
- At least M.Sc. in forestry or related field with postgraduate specialization in tree improvement, and with a broad understanding of tree seed procurement, seed sourcing and gene resource conservation.
- A minimum of 6 years post-graduate working experience includes experience in research in tree improvement, tree seed procurement, tree seed sourcing and gene conservation; as well as institutional development in integrated tree genetic resource management.
- Post-graduate studies in either of the three subjects and/or experience from similar positions elsewhere will be an additional advantage. Experience in leading and providing technical guidance to national research and development projects /programmes in tree improvement, tree seed procurement and gene conservation is required.
How to Apply:
All candidates should apply online at the link below.
Deadline: 17th November 2025
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Level of Education: Postgraduate Degree
Work Hours: 8
Experience in Months: 72