Graduate Trainee: Climate, Health, Agriculture, and Biodiversity (C-HAB)

ORGANISATION OVERVIEW

The Science for Africa Foundation (SFA Foundation) is a non-profit, public charity organisation that supports strengthens and promotes science innovation in Africa. The goal of the SFA Foundation is to address the continent’s most pressing developmental needs by generating scientific knowledge that solves problems and informs decision-making.

We serve the African research ecosystem by funding excellent research and innovation ideas; enabling interdisciplinary collaboration among researchers, building and reinforcing environments that are conducive for scientists to thrive and producing quality research that generates new, locally relevant knowledge.

The SFA Foundation takes a holistic approach to the development of science. Our programmatic initiatives are crafted to cater to the entire science ecosystem and span across the value chain from early discovery sciences to translation sciences and target cross-cutting gaps.

Our commitment to strengthening the entire research ecosystem is reflected in the creation of major science and innovation programmes implemented through a well-established grant-making scheme, advocacy, and promotion of scientific excellence, emphasis on intra-Africa collaboration and evidence-based policymaking mechanisms.

THE SFA FOUNDATION GRADUATE TRAINEE PROGRAMME

Are you passionate about science, and what enables delivery of the same, eager to learn and take on new challenges? Do you possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills, possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills coupled with ability to work well in a team-oriented environment? Then explore the graduate trainee openings within SFA Foundation.

We invite talented and driven individuals to join our Graduate Trainee Programme for a fixed term period of one year. Although the Program does not guarantee employment at SFA Foundation, it prepares trainees by giving them the necessary experience.

We are looking for motivated candidates who are eager to grow, innovate, and make an impact. Our Graduate Trainee Programme offers the perfect chance to launch your career. With hands-on training, mentorship, and real exposure, you will develop the expertise needed to excel in a dynamic, collaborative, and supportive environment.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Should have graduated in 2023 or 2024
• Bachelor’s degree in with a minimum of upper second-class honors in specialized fields related to the areas below.
• Should have a B+ and above in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) or its equivalent
• Kenyan citizen.

POSITION OVERVIEW

Position Title: Graduate Trainee: Climate, Health, Agriculture, and Biodiversity (C-HAB)

Department: Programmes

Reporting To: Senior Programme Officer, C-HAB

Position Location: Nairobi, Kenya

JOB PURPOSE

This position offers a dynamic learning and development opportunity for a motivated and innovative university graduate with a bachelor’s degree in natural sciences, particularly environment, climate change, chemistry, or other related disciplines. As a Graduate Management Trainee, the role holder will play a key role in supporting C-HAB programme activities, including in planning and participating in meetings with different stakeholders and partners, as well as provide research support as necessary. The role holder will assist in gathering and synthesizing data and information for tracking the work of SFA Foundation on climate change in the context of health, agriculture, and biodiversity. As a fresh graduate, this position will offer great opportunities for practical learning and applying one’s knowledge into meaningful work.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Pulling together data and information for mapping and tracking the work of SFA Foundation on climate change in relation to health, agriculture, and biodiversity
• Undertake background research and literature reviews in support of ongoing initiatives of C-HAB programme as guided by the line supervisor from time to time
• Support in organizing and planning of C-HAB programme meetings and workshops as necessary.
• Participate in C-HAB programme meetings and workshops including contribute ideas, taking notes, drafting reports and action points
• Assist with other programme tasks and assignments as may be reasonably requested and guided by the line supervisor.
• Keeping abreast of emerging issues and developments in the areas of climate change, health, agriculture, and biodiversity and updating C-HAB team accordingly
• Bringing positive energy while fostering collaborative working relationships with other departments and programmes to ensure timely and effective completion of tasks
• Explore and engage in relevant learning opportunities across other programmes and initiatives within the Foundation
• Take the initiative to seek relevant learning opportunities that will facilitate professional networks and relationships
• Embrace challenges as opportunities for learning and growth, while demonstrating resilience and determination towards career growth.
• Perform any other duties as may be assigned from time to time.

Academic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental sciences, climate change, chemistry or other related disciplines

Experience

No working experience is required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Attributes

• Must understand and demonstrate the Foundation’s values such as respect, accountability, excellence, diversity, and inclusion.
• Must demonstrate ability to pay attention to details.
• Must promote knowledge sharing and learning.
• Must have a high level of integrity and flexibility.
• Must maintain and promote collaboration and effective working relationships with both internal and external teams
• Must demonstrate commitment to continuous learning, improvement and creative ways of working.