Head of Animal Health Theme

About the Organization

Founded in 1970 and headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) is a unique African research institution focused primarily on insects and arthropods. icipe integrates research and development efforts across plant, human, animal, and environmental health. It generates top-tier scientific knowledge and transforms it into sustainable insect-based One Health innovations impacting millions across Africa and beyond. The Centre has over 500 staff members, operations in more than 40 African countries, and partnerships with over 300 global organizations. The centre also invests in Africa’s scientific talent through doctoral and postdoctoral programs and promotes the development of a bioeconomy.

Position Overview

icipe is seeking a dynamic, self-driven scientist to lead its Animal Health Theme at its Duduville Campus in Nairobi. This full-time position offers an initial three-year contract with potential renewal based on funding and performance. The role comes with an attractive compensation package payable in US dollars, including allowances for housing, transport, education, comprehensive health and life insurance, and an offshore retirement plan. Benefits also include paid annual leave and return airfare annually for the incumbent and dependents. Relocation support is provided for candidates hired from outside Kenya. The Centre encourages qualified African candidates, especially women, to apply.

Location

Based in Nairobi, Kenya's vibrant capital city with a population exceeding three million. Nairobi offers extensive international schooling options, excellent medical services available 24/7, frequent international flights, and a welcoming community. It is recognized as a hub for global research and development, hosting several international organizations.

Role Purpose

The Animal Health Theme at icipe conducts research on diseases transmitted by mosquitoes, tsetse flies, sandflies, fleas, and ticks; epidemiology of arthropod-borne diseases; operational research for developing and promoting biorational control strategies; a One Health multidisciplinary approach to disease management; and sustainable solutions for livestock feed shortages. Reporting to the Deputy Director General of Research for Development (DDG-R4D), this role will contribute leadership and strategic direction aligned with icipe’s goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the icipe leadership team and other Themes and Platforms to execute and facilitate research and capacity-building initiatives across the Centre.
• Develop and lead a clear vision and strategy for the Animal Health Theme.
• Identify and secure funding through competitive proposals and expand partnerships with donors, research bodies, government agencies, and private sector actors.
• Organize and efficiently allocate Theme resources to meet the Centre’s research, capacity building, and institutional aims.
• Guide programme and project leaders in preparing annual work plans, budgets, and scientific/technical reports for donors timely.
• Encourage continuous skill development and adoption of cutting-edge methodologies among Theme members.
• Establish and nurture collaborations with national, regional, and international institutions within relevant research fields.
• Grow the Theme’s team to maintain scientific excellence and address staffing needs effectively.
• Facilitate regular peer reviews of Theme member performance and conduct periodic performance reviews of the Theme itself.
• Serve as the Theme’s spokesperson and representative, ensuring compliance with institutional, donor, and regulatory obligations.
• Oversee adherence to legal and reporting requirements to stakeholders, including regulatory authorities and donors.
• Promote gender-sensitive research approaches and provide mentorship for MSc, PhD students, and postdoctoral fellows.

Qualifications

• PhD in medical or veterinary entomology, health ecology, or a related discipline from a recognized university.
• At least 10 years of senior-level experience in a research institution or university.
• Strong track record of research excellence and scholarly publications.
• Experience translating research findings into impact through partnerships.
• Proven mentorship and capacity building experience with MSc and PhD students.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Core Competencies

• Demonstrated outstanding leadership experience.
• Proven ability to craft successful proposals for large grants.
• Experience managing complex projects with financial, human resource, and administrative oversight.
• Highly organized, adaptable, and skilled in prioritization.
• Proficiency in English is required; knowledge of French is advantageous.

Additional Information

This role reports directly to the Deputy Director General of Research for Development. The successful candidate should be ready to commence at the earliest opportunity. Applications will be accepted up to 24th November 2025. The Centre values diversity, equity, and teamwork and is committed to equal employment opportunities regardless of race, gender, religion, disability, or background.

Applicants must submit a confidential cover letter, detailed curriculum vitae with contact details of three referees, and a statement explaining their suitability for the role.