International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) – Research Officer I (Forage Characterization) Job Vacancy – July 2026
Organization: International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI)
Position: Research Officer I – Forage Characterization
Program: Livestock Genetics, Nutrition and Feed Resources
Reference Number: ROI/LGFNR/014/26
Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Employment Type: National Staff (NS), Full‑time
Deadline: July 8, 2026
About ILRI
The International Livestock Research Institute works to improve food and nutritional security and reduce poverty in developing countries through research on efficient, safe, and sustainable livestock systems. ILRI is the only CGIAR center fully dedicated to animal agriculture, with offices across Africa and Asia.
Position Overview
The Research Officer I – Forage Characterization will support research activities related to forage genetic resource characterization, diversity studies, subset development, gene discovery, and genomics‑assisted improvement of forage species. The role involves laboratory, field, bioinformatics, and capacity‑building responsibilities.
Key Responsibilities
- Plan, coordinate, and implement experimental activities related to forage diversity analysis under the genebank.
- Conduct advanced bioinformatics analyses of genomic and next‑generation sequencing (NGS) data.
- Review scientific literature and apply new genomic methods and techniques in forage diversity research.
- Contribute to resource mobilization by preparing concept notes and proposals.
- Compile research results, maintain databases, and prepare reports and presentations.
- Supervise, train, and mentor technical staff, students, and temporary staff.
- Develop and implement SOPs, risk‑management plans, and quality‑management procedures.
- Provide technical backstopping and training to internal and external stakeholders.
- Support budgeting, planning, and management of physical and financial resources.
- Ensure compliance with ILRI guidelines, safety standards, and laboratory protocols.
Academic & Professional Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Plant Molecular Biology, Plant Genetics, Plant Breeding, or a related field.
Experience Requirements
- Minimum 3 years of hands‑on laboratory experience in plant molecular biology.
- Experience analyzing NGS data and applying bioinformatics tools.
- Proven track record in scientific report writing and publications.
Skills & Competencies
- Proficiency in molecular techniques: DNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis.
- Experience in field trial design and experimentation.
- Strong laboratory organization and workflow optimization skills.
- Ability to analyze genetic and genomic data using R and other statistical software.
- Excellent communication skills in English.
- Strong interpersonal skills; reliable, accurate, careful, and punctual.
Duty Station
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Grade & Salary
-
Grade: HG 13
-
Minimum Base Salary: USD 752 per month
- Competitive benefits including medical and life insurance, offshore pension plan, and access to ILRI’s secure campus facilities.
Terms of Appointment
- National Staff position.
- Initial one‑year contract, renewable based on performance and funding availability.
Application Instructions
Applicants must submit the following via ILRI’s recruitment portal:
👉 http://ilri.simplicant.com/
Required documents:
- Cover letter (include the position title and reference number: REF: RA/LGFNR/014/26)
- Updated CV
- Names, telephone numbers, and email addresses of three referees
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
ILRI does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process.
Women are strongly encouraged to apply.
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