Research Associate III at International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI)

Key Responsibilities:

• Support planning and implementation of feed and forage production trials, including crop-residue processing and evaluation of improved feed ingredients
• Assist in preparation, processing, and laboratory analysis of feed, forage, and FDP samples (nutrient profiling, digestibility, and safety assessments)
• Contribute to the setup, management, and monitoring of animal, poultry, and fish feeding trials, ensuring accurate measurement of performance indicators
• Conduct field data collection, sampling, and initial sample preparation for quality assessment, including on-station and on-farm forage variety trials
• Compile, clean, and manage field, laboratory, survey, and trial datasets; perform basic data analysis and contribute to scientific reports and communication materials
• Support surveys and stakeholder engagements related to forage production, feed use, adoption constraints, markets, and regulatory requirements
• Assist in organizing trainings, field days, workshops, and other knowledge-sharing activities with farmers, private sector actors, and service providers
• Provide logistical, operational, and supervisory support for research activities, ensuring proper use and maintenance of field, farm, and laboratory equipment
• Perform any other related duties assigned

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in animal science, animal nutrition, feed science and technology, agricultural biotechnology, or a closely related field
• Five years relevant experience
• Certification in laboratory safety, agrochemical handling, or animal welfare is an added advantage
• Hands-on experience in agricultural research, livestock or aquaculture nutrition, feed and forage development, laboratory analysis, or related areas
• Practical involvement in field trials, laboratory assays, or on-farm research is essential
• Experience working with farmers, private-sector actors, government agencies, or development partners is desirable
• Prior exposure to data collection, data management, and basic statistical analysis is an advantage
• Strong practical skills in field experimentation, sample collection, and laboratory procedures
• Ability to manage multiple activities across farm, laboratory, and field settings
• Competence in data entry, cleaning, and use of statistical or spreadsheet software
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders
• Strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and commitment to maintaining high-quality records
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Willingness to travel frequently to field sites