Research Associate – Data Systems

The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) seeks to recruit a Research Associate- Data Systems to contribute to the development of genetic data management systems and tools for use in the African Asia Dairy Genetic Gain Country Program.

ILRI works to improve food and nutritional security and reduce poverty in developing countries through research for efficient, safe and sustainable use of livestock. It is the only one of 15 CGIAR research centres dedicated entirely to animal agriculture research for the developing world. Co-hosted by Kenya and Ethiopia, it has regional or country offices and projects in East, South and Southeast Asia as well as Central, East, Southern and West Africa. www.ilri.org

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to the development of data management systems (collation, processing, and storage) and tools for the livestock production/productivity and genetics
• Develop and provide training and support for new and existing tools and systems used for data capture, data extraction and reporting
• Follow Software Development Lifecycle processes to design, implement, test and deploy new technology solutions
• Implement automations and process improvements to maximise efficiency and effectiveness of workflows and data pipelines
• Respond to 2nd level support requests from internal and external stakeholders including assistance in analysis and interpretation of data extracts
• Implement and monitor Quality Assurance (QA) and data validation processes, including safe and remote back-up of database systems and tools
• Maintain the security of information and databases to ensure the confidentiality and controlled access of collected and all relevant data management systems
• Perform any other related duties as may be required

Requirements

• Bachelors degree in business information systems, database management, computer science or relevant field
• Minimum of 4  years’ of experience in relevant field
• Operational experience working with relational database systems e.g., MySQL, MS SQL Server including SQL programming, database design, database management
• Experience of data visualization and reporting tools
• Knowledge of the application of quality assurance standards and procedures
• Experience in software programming and product development
• Use of Github or other version control system
• Experience and knowledge of cybersecurity and data protection best practices
• Experience of data management for research projects, particularly biological and agricultural topics
• Experience of ODK/ONA
• Ability to work independently and within a team

Post location: The position will be based in Nairobi, Kenya

Terms of Appointment

This position is at job level HG 12 and it is only open to Kenyan nationals. The position is a 3-year contract, renewable subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funding. ILRI offers a competitive salary and benefits package which includes pension, medical and other insurances.

How to apply: Applicants should send a cover letter and CV expressing their interest in the position, what they can bring to the job and the names and addresses (including telephone and email) of three referees who are knowledgeable about the candidate’s professional qualifications and work experience to the Head of People and Culture through our recruitment portal by clicking on "Apply Now" on or before 26 May 2025. The position title and reference number REF: RA-LGNFR/1872/2025 should be clearly marked on the subject line of the cover letter.

We thank all applicants for their interest in working for ILRI. Due to the volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

ILRI does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview meeting, processing or training). ILRI also does not concern itself with information on applicants' bank accounts.

To find out more about ILRI, visit our websites at http://www.ilri.org/

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