Research Assistant at icipe

icipe seeks to recruit a Research Assistant II under the Behavioural and Chemical Ecology Unit. The position is tenable in Nairobi at the icipe Duduville campus. This is a two-year contract, renewable subject to continued position needs, funding for the position, and performance of the staff member. This is a nationally recruited position. A competitive compensation package will be offered to the right candidate. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

About icipe

Established in 1970 and headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (www.icipe.org) is distinct, being the only research organisation in Africa working primarily on insects and other arthropods. icipe is also the sole institution that combines research and development activities across plant health, human health, animal health, and environmental health. icipe generates world-class scientific knowledge and translates it into insect-based, nature-positive, One Health innovations that sustainably transform millions of livelihoods across Africa and beyond. Additionally, icipe nurtures Africa's talent and leadership in insect science through the Centre's long-standing programmes in doctoral and postdoctoral training, advancement of research and innovation in applied sciences, engineering, and technology, and the creation of a bioeconomy in Africa. The Centre has about 500 international and national staff, operations in more than 40 countries in Africa, and over 300 partnerships with diverse organisations across the world. For additional information, visit: ( www.icipe.org ).

Please also download icipe's Vision and Strategy 2026-2030: https://www.icipe.org/content/icipevision-and-strategy-2026-2030

Overall Purpose of the Job

The Research Assistant will provide technical and logistical support to research projects in the Behavioural Chemical Ecology Unit. Key responsibilities include rearing and maintaining fly colonies, preparing experimental materials, and conducting behavioural and chemical experiments. The assistant will also handle data collection, processing, and organisation, while ensuring proper care and maintenance of laboratory equipment. This position is central to the smooth execution of experiments and will directly contribute to achieving the project's research objectives.

Specific duties

The successful candidate is expected to:

• Rear and maintain fly colonies under controlled laboratory conditions by preparing diets for larval and adult stages, while monitoring colony health, productivity, and environmental parameters
• Prepare materials, set up assays, calibrate instruments, and conduct behavioural and chemical analyses
• Accurately record observations, perform data entry with quality checks, and assist in preparing datasets for analysis
• Clean and sterilise lab equipment and workspaces, store and label chemicals and samples properly, and report equipment malfunctions or maintenance needs
• Follow safety and ethical guidelines, maintain compliance records, and take part in safety inspections and training
• Collaborate with the Principal Investigator and students, provide logistical support for events, and help ensure smooth daily operations of the research unit

Requirements/qualifications

• Diploma in Biological Sciences or a related field from a recognized university.
• At least one year of practical experience in a biological or laboratory setting.
• Basic knowledge of insect rearing and laboratory procedures.
• Understanding of laboratory safety, biosafety, and chemical handling practices.
• Skills in data recording, entry, and preliminary analysis.
• Ability to maintain laboratory equipment and prepare experimental materials.

Reporting
This position reports to the Research Scientist.

Apply for this vacancy

Deadline: Wednesday, July 1, 2026

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