Full Time
Nairobi, Kenya
Posted 3 weeks ago

International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI)

Research Associate – Data Systems at ILRI | Nairobi, Kenya | Apply by 26 May 2025

ESSENTIAL JOB DETAILS

Position: Research Associate – Data Systems
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Job Type: Full-Time (3-Year Renewable Contract)
Job Category: Data Systems, Livestock Research, Agricultural Technology
Organization: International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI)
Reference Number: REF: RA-LGNFR/1872/2025
Application Deadline: 26th May 2025
Application Mode: Online via ILRI Recruitment Portal – Apply Here

INTRODUCTION

The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) is a world-renowned research institution dedicated to improving food and nutritional security and reducing poverty in developing countries through livestock-based research. ILRI operates under the CGIAR network and is the only center focused exclusively on animal agriculture for the developing world.

ILRI is currently recruiting a qualified and driven Research Associate – Data Systems to support the development of genetic data systems and tools used in the African Asian Dairy Genetic Gains (AADGG) program. The successful candidate will be based in Nairobi, Kenya and will contribute directly to advancing data-driven livestock genetics research across Africa and Asia.

This opportunity is ideal for data systems professionals seeking to work in a global organization that combines science, innovation, and agricultural development.

ABOUT ILRI

The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) is a leading international organization headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, with operations in more than 40 countries. It is co-hosted by the governments of Kenya and Ethiopia and collaborates with regional governments, universities, and NGOs to address global challenges through animal science and agricultural innovation.

ILRI is a key player in the CGIAR research partnership. Its work spans:

Livestock genetics and breeding
Animal nutrition and feed resources
Animal health
Climate-smart agriculture
Markets, policies, and institutions
Data systems and digital agriculture

ILRI’s approach is interdisciplinary, impact-driven, and oriented towards sustainable agricultural systems that empower smallholder farmers and livestock keepers across the developing world.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The Research Associate – Data Systems will play a critical role in designing, maintaining, and optimizing data systems related to livestock genetics and productivity. Key responsibilities include:

Data Systems Development:
- Design and develop integrated data management systems for collation, processing, storage, and analysis of livestock production and genetics data.
- Develop scalable back-end architecture for capturing field-level and research data.
Tool Implementation and Support:
- Build and support digital tools for data entry, extraction, reporting, and visualization.
- Provide technical support and training to stakeholders using ILRI’s data systems.
Automation and Optimization:
- Implement process automation to streamline workflows, enhance efficiency, and reduce data handling errors.
- Optimize data pipelines for real-time and batch data processing.
Quality Assurance and Data Security:
- Enforce Quality Assurance (QA) protocols and data validation practices.
- Ensure secure, remote backup of all systems and guarantee controlled access to sensitive data.
Technical Documentation and Support:
- Maintain detailed documentation of system architecture, updates, and workflows.
- Offer second-level support to internal and external users, including assistance with analysis and interpretation of data extracts.
Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing:
- Work closely with software developers, geneticists, and livestock researchers to align system functionalities with project goals.
- Engage with cross-functional teams and external partners to promote harmonized data exchange.
System Maintenance:
- Ensure continuous uptime, troubleshooting, and security compliance of all deployed systems.
- Conduct regular system health checks and monitor usage statistics.
Innovation and Research Integration:
- Contribute to ILRI’s digital transformation initiatives by integrating modern software and tools into agricultural research programs.

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

Minimum Academic and Professional Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Business Information Systems, Database Management, or related field.

Technical Competencies:

Strong experience working with relational database systems such as MySQL or MS SQL Server.
Ability to write complex SQL queries, stored procedures, and manage database design.
Familiarity with data visualization and business intelligence tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau, or similar).
Experience in data quality management and validation standards.
Strong skills in software programming, particularly in development environments using Python, JavaScript, or R.
Use of GitHub or similar version control systems for code and collaboration.
Solid understanding of cybersecurity principles and data protection regulations.

Sector-Specific Knowledge:

Experience in managing data for research projects, especially in biological, agricultural, or environmental research.
Proficiency in ODK/ONA or other digital field data collection platforms.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multicultural research setting.

DESIRABLE ATTRIBUTES

Analytical mindset and problem-solving orientation.
Exceptional attention to detail and data integrity.
Flexibility to adapt to evolving technologies and research priorities.
Ability to work across teams in different geographic locations.
Strong documentation and communication skills.
Results-driven, resourceful, and self-motivated.

POST LOCATION

The position is based at ILRI Headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya.

TERMS OF APPOINTMENT

Job Level: HG 12
Nationality Requirement: Only open to Kenyan nationals
Type of Contract: 3-year contract (renewable subject to performance and funding availability)
Remuneration: ILRI offers a competitive salary and benefits package including pension, medical cover, and insurance plans

HOW TO APPLY

Interested applicants should apply through the ILRI recruitment portal:

➡️ Click here to apply online

Ensure your application includes:

Cover letter detailing your interest in the position and what you bring to the role
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Names and contact information (email and telephone) of three referees familiar with your qualifications and professional experience

Reference Number: REF: RA-LGNFR/1872/2025
Deadline: Applications must be submitted by 26th May 2025

Note: ILRI does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly.

WHY JOIN ILRI

Joining ILRI means being part of an international team committed to agricultural innovation and development impact. Benefits include:

An intellectually stimulating research environment
Access to global expertise and capacity-building opportunities
Involvement in high-impact projects across Africa and Asia
Competitive pay, pension, and insurance benefits
Opportunity to contribute to food security, sustainability, and resilience in low-income regions

ADDITIONAL ENGAGEMENT

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KEYWORDS

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To apply for this job please visit www.ilri.org.

By The Kenyan Job Finder Team