Research Associate - Digital Agriculture

AI summary

ILRI seeks a Research Associate to support climate data processing and agricultural analytics in Nairobi. The role involves data management, analysis of climate data, and developing decision-support tools. Requires a Bachelor's degree in related field with 2 years experience, proficiency in Python, Git, Linux, and deep learning for geospatial data.

• Proficiency in Python and Git required
• Experience with deep learning for geospatial data
• Knowledge of French is an advantage
• Application deadline: August 7, 2026

Description

Research Associate - Digital Agriculture | ILRI - International Livestock Research Institute Research Associate - Digital Agriculture ILRI - International Livestock Research Institute Nairobi HG11 level Speaks English, French Application deadline: August 07, 2026 (13 days) Apply Summary by Impactpool The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) is seeking a Research Associate to provide technical and analytical support for climate data processing and agricultural analytics in Nairobi. The role involves supporting data management, analyzing climate data, and developing decision-support tools. The candidate will work closely with national partners and contribute to the development of platforms like AgDataHub. This position is focused on enhancing livestock systems to improve lives and contribute to food systems transformation. Candidate Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Statistics, AI/ML, Data Science, or related field Minimum of two years relevant experience Proficiency in Python Proficiency with Git/GitHub Experience with Linux/Unix environments Experience applying deep learning to geospatial data Familiarity with cloud computing (AWS) Strong analytical and written communication skills in English Knowledge of French is an advantage The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) seeks to recruit a Research Associate to support ongoing activities in Nairobi, providing technical and analytical support for climate data processing, agricultural analytics, and the development of decision-support tools, particularly within Kenya-focused activities. ILRI is an international organisation working for better lives and better planet through livestock. ILRI’s mission emphasises the interconnections between people, animals, and the environment, aiming to improve the lives of more than 300 million people in low- and middle-income countries through livestock science that supports equitable and resilient livestock systems, ultimately contributing to food systems transformation with climate and environmental benefits. This mission is delivered through two core strategic objectives: co-designing and deploying sustainable, science-based livestock solutions, and leveraging science to inform and influence policy and investment decisions. ILRI is a member of the CGIAR, a global research alliance that works to transform food, land and water systems in a climate crisis and is the only CGIAR centre dedicated to addressing multiple development challenges through sustainable livestock solutions. Responsibilities The Research Assistant will: Support data ingestion, cleaning, and management of weather, soil, and agricultural datasets. Assist in analysis of climate data (e.g., rainfall, temperature, forecasts). Contribute to development and maintenance of platforms such as AgDataHub. Assist in benchmarking and validation of forecast products. Develop scripts and workflows (Python) for data processing and analysis. Liaise with national partners (e.g., meteorological agencies, research institutions). Requirements Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of two years relevant experience in Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Statistics, AI/ML, Data Science, or a closely related field. Proficiency in Python. Proficiency with Git/GitHub for version control and collaborative development. Experience with Linux/Unix environments and command-line tools. Experience applying deep learning (CNNs or similar) to geospatial or remote sensing data. Familiarity with cloud computing environments (AWS) and distributed data systems (Apache Druid). Strong analytical and written communication skills in English. Knowledge of French will be an added advantage Post location : The position will be based in Nairobi, Kenya This is a Nationally Recruited Staff (NRS) positions based at ILRI’s Nairobi campusThis position is at job level HG11 and it is only open to Kenyan nationals. The position is a 3-year contract, renewable subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funding. ILRI offers a competitive salary and benefits package which includes pension, medical and other insurances. How to apply: Applicants should send a cover letter and CV expressing their interest in the position, what they can bring to the job and the names and addresses (including telephone and email) of three referees who are knowledgeable about the candidate’s professional qualifications and work experience to the Head of People and Culture through our recruitment portal by clicking on "Apply Now" on or before 07 August 2026 . The position title and reference number REF: RA-DA/2258-07/2026 should be clearly marked on the subject line of the cover letter.We thank all applicants for their interest in working for ILRI. Due to the volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted . ILRI does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview meeting, processing or training). ILRI also do