Research Scientist - Environmental/Agricultural Economics at Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI)

KEFRI 7a

Responsibilities

• Participate in the Conceptualization, planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluating of R&D projects /programmes /activities;
• Assist in collection and analysis of economic data on forest enterprises and markets using cost benefit analysis, econometric and marketing efficiency tools and procedures on farm household surveys, market value chain surveys, value addition processing, comparative land use/enterprises analysis, technology impact surveys, wealth indices, price analysis, and reviews of statistical data;
• Participate in integration of economics and market research in forestry research and development processes by carrying out cost benefits analysis of technology innovation and competitiveness of proposed technologies on existing forest practices/technologies to gauge research benefits and impacts;
• Contribute to the understanding on the role of land use economics and market studies to enhance technology adoption and socioeconomic impacts of technologies on the livelihoods/environment and human development;
• Participate in the assessment of the role of forest sector in socioeconomic development through monitoring the roles of industry and forest-based enterprises in forest technology adoption and development of models for linking tree growers to various vibrant markets niches in the country/export/imports by undertaking market surveys, national and regional trade in forest and natural products;
• Participate in collecting data and developing tolls for linking the forest sector economics to national accounting leading to improved contribution of forest sector to national
• Assisting other KEFRI programs in mainstreaming economics to research and project activities
• Assist in developing concepts and proposals for internal and external donor support
• Participate in writing appropriate technical reports including research notes, technical notes, policy briefs, conference posters, dissemination flyers;
• Mentor students on attachment, interns and visitors including High School and Colleges;
• Participating in compiling of departmental quarterly and annual reports; and
• Any other duty as assigned from time to time

Qualifications 

• Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) minimum aggregate ‘C+’ (C plus) or its equivalent qualification from a recognized institution;
• At least    an    Upper    Second    Honors    in    Bachelor    of    Science    degree    in Forestry/Agricultural Economics or its equivalent from a recognized Institution;
• Should have written at least two (2) technical reports/ papers;
• Working experience in the same field is an added advantage;
• Being a member of a professional body will be an added advantage;
• A team player, good in communication and report writing; and
• Computer Literacy especially in Excel, SAS, SPSS or relevant economic packages