Project Context: RTRP-Seed

Goal: Strengthen Native Tree Species (NTS) seed supply systems in 5 SSA countries — Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, Burkina Faso — to support:

AFR100 (African Forest Landscape Restoration Initiative)
Bonn Challenge (Global restoration pledge)

Focus: Climate adaptation, biodiversity conservation, and improved livelihoods through resilient land restoration.

About CIFOR-ICRAF

CIFOR-ICRAF advances human well-being, environmental conservation, and equity through rigorous research on forests and landscapes.

Founded: CIFOR in 1993; merged with ICRAF for global impact
Reach: 30+ countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America
Approach: Science-policy-community integration for climate, biodiversity, and sustainable livelihoods
Culture: Dynamic, inclusive, knowledge-driven with flexible work and professional growth
Core Values: Integrity, Excellence, Inclusion, Sustainability
CSR: Capacity building, environmental education, community empowerment

Visit www.cifor.orgfor more.

Role Overview

The Research Associate supports the RTRP-Seed Project in Uganda with technical and limited managerial tasks under the supervision of the:

Tree Breeding and Seed Source Scientist (Nairobi)
ICRAF-Uganda Country Representative

You will strengthen institutional frameworks, seed systems, and gene conservation for native tree species.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Support

Support surveys to improve institutional and policy environments
Disseminate knowledge on key species and landscapes
Assess seed demand for priority native tree species
Identify and establish seed sources
Support seed source development and field gene bank conservation in Uganda
Maintain liaison with relevant institutions
Supervise junior technical project staff

Collaboration & Capacity Building

Attend coordination meetings as required
Support technical consultants and service providers
Assist in training activities
Provide technical support to project stakeholders

Project Management

Assist in procurement and infrastructure development
Support project operations and internal meetings
Identify implementation barriers and propose solutions

Qualifications, Education & Skills

Education: M.Sc. in Forestry or related field with focus on tree improvement
Knowledge: Tree seed procurement, sourcing, and gene resource conservation
Experience: Minimum 6 years post-graduate in:
- Tree improvement research
- Seed systems and sourcing
- Gene conservation
- Institutional development in tree genetic resources
Advantage: PhD in relevant field or prior similar role
Leadership: Proven technical leadership in national tree enhancement and seed programs