Research Associate III at International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI)

Job Description

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.

Background.

The incumbent will provide analytical support to the research program titled “Strengthening food systems to promote increased value chain employment opportunities for youth” funded by the Mastercard Foundation (MCF) and implemented in partnership with the World Food Programme (WFP) activities in Kenya. Particularly, the Research Analyst will be heavily engaged on the assessment of using digital tools to reduce post-harvest loss in food value chains. There will also be opportunities for the Research Associate to contribute to capacity strengthening and knowledge sharing activities across research, government, civil society, and other stakeholder communities.

Key Responsibilities

Survey preparation and implementation: The Research Assistant will contribute to the design and implementation of surveys on the role of digital technologies in relation to gender, youth, and food value chain analysis in Kenya. Data analysis: The Research Assistant will support the data analysis process, including quantitative and qualitative research methods, to investigate the potential of digital technologies in creating jobs and reducing post-harvest losses along key food value chains in Kenya. Research on digital tools: The Research Assistant will be engaged in assessing the use of digital tools to reduce post-harvest loss in key food value chains. Operating digital tools in food value chains: The Research Assistant will support the implementation of real-time data collection tools along key food value chains and manage the data for further analysis by the project team members and decision-making by stakeholders. Capacity strengthening and knowledge sharing: The Research Assistant will have opportunities to contribute to capacity-building activities and knowledge sharing among research, government, civil society, and other stakeholder communities.

Requirements

Qualifications 

Master’s degree in economics, Agricultural Economics, or a related field. At least five years’ experience Experience with applying quantitative research methods to large survey databases. Excellent drafting skills and analytical mind. Excellent econometric skills on cross-section and panel data analysis. Familiarity with staple food production and value-chains in Kenya. Demonstrated ability to perform in-depth statistical analysis. Demonstrated ability to multi-task as needed, consistently meet deadlines and manage time. Demonstrated professional level of attention to detail and accuracy of work. Ability to work independently and with initiative.

Preferred Qualifications :

Skilled in computer programming in Stata, R, or Python. Experience in developing web-based or mobile applications. Experience in managing cloud-based workflows. Proficiency in a second language of the U.N. System.