Kenya Agricultural Research Institute (KARI) Job Vacancies

1.     Assistant Director, Technology Packaging and Transfer
2.     Assistant Director, Biotechnology and Biodiversity Conservation
3.     Senior Public Communication Officer
4.     Research Officer I
5.     Senior System Analyst
6.     Virologist
7.     Data Manager and Analyst
8.     Accounts Assistant
9.     Driver III
The Kenya Agricultural Research Institute (KARI) is a Parastatal established by the Government of Kenya under the Science and Technology Act Cap 250 to carry out Agricultural Research to support the Crop and Livestock Production sectors of the country.
Beside this core function, the Institute collaborates closely with the farmers, pastoralists, extension staff and other National and International Development Partners.
KARI manages thirty-three (33) Centers inclusive of the sub-centers located all over the country with a view of developing and disseminating technology, tailored to meet the needs of different categories of farmers in various Agro-ecological zones and Socio-economic Circumstances.
In order to enhance the provision of services, the Institute would like to fill in the following positions, which are vacant.
The Institute’s policy is to provide equal employment opportunity to eligible candidates.

Assistant Director, Technology Packaging and Transfer
Job Grade R.I.13 Ref: KARI/2/027/04 (1 Post)
The Assistant Director, Technology Packaging and Transfer will be reporting to the Director through the Deputy Director, Outreach and Partnerships and shall be responsible for collecting, processing, packaging, storage and distribution of Technology information material.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Prepare long term strategic plans and annual work plans for the programme
  • Coordinate collection, processing and publication of technology information materials.
  • Coordinate and oversee efficient storage, distribution and promotion of technology information materials.
  • Institutionalize the process of technology packaging, storage and distribution of technology information materials throughout the institute.
  • Catalyze technology up-scaling process and to facilitate information exchange between and within the different value chains/innovation systems.
  • Develop innovative ways of packaging, distribution and promotion of KARI information products.
  • Inculcate of open source sharing within the institute and to promote establishment of information source points within the mandate areas of the centers.
  • Promote information exchange between research centers and to monitor quality of information flowing to the stakeholders.
  • Ensure proper management of the programme’s expenditures and the proper handling of all its personnel matters in accordance with KARI’s existing regulations.
  • Identify potential sources of funding for supporting the programme and submitting proposals for funding.
  • Ensure timely preparation and implementation of annual work plans for each programme.
  • Carry out any other duties as may be required by the Deputy Director and the Director of the Institute.
Requirements for Appointment
  • A Doctorate degree in a relevant field from a recognized Institution.
  • Proven experience of at least 12 years of uninterrupted research, which must include being an author of at least six (6) scientific publications in refereed journals or relevant books (chapters) AND one (1) verifiable  technology/innovation which must have been packaged and disseminated AND the first (principal) author of One (1) grant-winning proposal in addition to at least one of the following achievements:-
    • Served in the position of Senior Principal Research Officer or its equivalent for a minimum period of 3 years.
    • Proven management and leadership skills.
Assistant Director, Biotechnology and Biodiversity Conservation
Job Grade R.I.13 Ref: KARI/2/027/05 (1 Post)
The Assistant Director, Biotechnology and Biodiversity Conservation (BBC) will be reporting to the Director through the Deputy Director, Research and Technology and shall be in charge of genetic resources management and will ensure sustainable use and conservation of agricultural genetic resources.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Plan, manage and co-ordinate the BBC Research Programme.
  • Review and develop policies and procedures to govern the BBC research programme.
  • Ensure compliance with biosafety and stewardship regulatory requirements in development of biotechnology products/technologies within the institute.
  • Compile information for official release of new biotechnology products/technologies (Protocols, Diagnostic kits, vaccines, crop varieties, bio-fertilizers, etc).
  • Liaise with the outreach division and other biotechnology and biodiversity stakeholders in creation of awareness of the programmes products/technologies.
  • Work in liaison with other KARI research and non-research programmes, and National and International Institutions on matters that are relevant to the BBC programme.
  • Establish and maintain linkages with beneficiaries and stakeholders of research/services, including farmers and extension personnel, in development of appropriate biotechnology and biodiversity technologies.
  • In liaison with the AD, PM&E, monitor and evaluate research undertaken at research centers and provide advice on technical evaluations to the Institute’s Management which would enable the Management to make appropriate decisions on the Institute’s priorities.
  • Ensure proper management of the BBC programme’s expenditures and the proper handling of all its personnel  matters in accordance with KARI’s existing regulations.
  • Ensure prompt data processing, documentation and preparation of progress reports and annual scientific reports of the programme.
  • Identify potential sources of funding for research and submitting proposals for funding.
  • Ensure that research priority setting forums with stakeholders are held regularly and that they conform to the needs of BBC programme and contribute towards achievement of KARI’s objectives.
  • Plan for human, physical and financial requirements of the respective programmes.
  • Ensure Biodiversity conservation issues are well articulated in the Institute.
  • Promote linkages with relevant national, regional and International Biodiversity Institutions and stakeholders.
  • Ensure articulation of Institutional Biodiverstiy elements with national policy on Biodiversity conservation.
  • Ensure that the national genebank is fully supported in both human and financial resource.
  • Review periodically the resource needs of the BBC programme.
  • Ensure optimal management and conservation of Biodiversity within the Institute including abiding by International.
Requirements for Appointment
  • A Doctorate degree in a relevant field from a recognized Institution.
  • Proven experience of at least 12 years of uninterrupted research, which must include being an author of at least six (6) scientific publications in refereed journals or relevant books (chapters) AND one (1) verifiable  technology/innovation which must have been packaged and disseminated AND the first (principal) author of one (1) grant-winning proposal in addition to at least one of the following achievements:-
    • Served in the position of Senior Principal Research Officer or its equivalent for a minimum period of 3 years.
    • Proven management and leadership skills.
Senior Public Communication Officer
Job Grade R.I.11 Ref: KARI/2/027/06 (1 Post)
The Public Communications Officer will be reporting to Director, KARI and be responsible for developing and implementing the Public Relations (PR) strategy for KARI.
This role will ensure that communication is compelling and consistent across all channels to reinforce the vision, mission and priorities of the Institute. This role is also to create and execute programs that drive perceptions internally about KARI as a premier Research Institution in the region.
The incumbent is expected to drive positive employee perceptions of KARI’s strategy and work environment. He/She is to be accountable to lead KARI’s commitment to long term Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy, direction, priority and implementation.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Develop and implement communication plan and communication strategies: external PR, employee communication and corporate social responsibility initiatives.
  • Manage relationships with a variety of media including tech, business, national, and vertical and across media types including blogs, online, print, broadcast, social media, analysts, government departments and partner organizations.
  • Manage and attend media related events, including visiting executive’s press interactions.
  • Manage relationships with various business unit leaders to ensure CSR efforts are executed in a focused, consistent manner.
  • PR support for services and products launches, marketing campaigns and partner programs.
  • Manage an external agency, commissioning and overseeing the drafting and editing process for press releases and by line articles to high standard consistent with company messaging and editorial guidelines.
  • Reviewing editorial schedules and managing the features process to ensure Adobe appears in all key features.
  • Assisting with organization of press briefings, media training, and press attendance at company press seminars.
  • Provide counsel to senior executives on messaging and media relations; host media interviews.
  • Manage and lead the PR, CSR and other agency/s.
  • Lead the management and internal and external promotion of KARI’s CSR program.
  • Identify new program opportunities to enhance the Institute’s image as a socially responsible organization.
  • Oversee, facilitate and manage all corporate and foundation grants.
  • Serve as spokesperson for KARI’s CSR activities, ensuring strong visibility internally and externally.
  • Manage speaking opportunities and awards programs.
Requirements
  • Masters degree in any of the following; Mass Communication, Communication Studies, Public Relations, Journalism, International Relations or its equivalent.
  • Experience in implementing media campaigns (incl. social media) and 6 years of uninterrupted service.
  • Proven track record in producing effective employee communication strategies and channels.
  • Demonstrate success in securing media coverage in a variety of outlet types and have a track record of developing successful working relationships with reporters and bloggers etc.
  • Experience in working closely with senior level executives.
  • Effective team management skills and working with virtual teams across geographical locations.
  • Excellent writing skills across a range of media including speech writing, with a high level of attention to detail.
  • Strong interpersonal skills, ability to develop relationships and communicate with all levels of management.
Research Officer I
Job Grade R.I.10 Ref: KARI/2/027/07 (3 Posts)
The Research Officer I in Land and Water Management, Socio-economics and Environment Officer respectively will be
reporting to the Officer – in – Charge and they shall conduct research required for agricultural knowledge and technologies for the KARI Garissa mandate region.
The Research Officers are expected to come up with appropriate research and development strategies, to implement research and development programmes/projects, and to disseminate and promote the adoption of resulting technologies, products and services for the benefit of end users. These positions will be based at KARI Garissa Center.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Formulate research project proposals.
  • Co-ordinate and implement research projects and communicate research findings including Technology transfer.
  • Carry out constraint identification surveys and analysis.
  • Prepare reports and technical/scientific publications.
  • Ensure proper resource management.
  • Guide other staff working in the research programmes.
  • Develop and validate diagnostic tools and technologies.
  • Provide diagnostic, advisory and training services.
Requirements for Appointment
  • Masters’ degree in a relevant field from a recognized Institution.
  • Demonstrated merit and ability in work performance as reflected by results as follows:
    • Be the first author of a verifiable paper in a conference/symposium with proceedings.
    • Be at least the second author of at least two (2) verifiable papers in conferences/symposia with proceedings.
Re-Advertisement
Senior System Analyst
Job Grade R.I.11
Ref: KARI/2/027/08 (1 Post)
The Senior System Analyst will be reporting to the Assistant Director, Information and Documentation Services and will be responsible for effective coordination and proper management of Institutional databases and applications and provide leadership to the other system administrators, systems analysts, and engineering staff in the Unit.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Database creation, design and management.
  • Carry out specifications for ICT equipment and systems.
  • Write and test, implement computer programmes and systems.
  • Implement establishment of back-up systems.
  • Upgrade ICT infrastructure, systems and procedures and ICT budgeting.
  • Develop and advise on corporate information and communication technology strategy.
  • Systems analysis and designs.
  • Train and develop staff in the Unit.
  • Carry out feasibility studies for areas to be computerized.
  • Develop interfacing between different programmes.
  • Write programs for applications and subroutines including programming for a multiuse environment.
  • Ensure security and authorized access to data processing equipment and information at the institute’s network installations.
  • Participate in organizing seminars, Trainings and workshops for staff.
Core Competencies
  • Demonstrated team leadership and team building skills.
  • Proven experience in implementation and management of information systems.
  • Must be proficient in Multi-platform, multi-discipline ICT development and applications.
  • Must be conversant with Project Management.
  • Must be dynamic, self motivated and work with little supervision.
Requirements for Appointment
  • A Masters Degree in Computer Science/Engineering, Information Technology from a recognized Institution.
  • Certification in Application development, Microsoft SQL/Access and Oracle Applications Developer.
  • Must have at least 3 years of uninterrupted working experience in ICT database applications, analysis & design in a large and busy organization.
  • Those who have worked in ICT in research organizations will have an added advantage.
Re-Advertisement
Virologist
Job Grade R.I.11
Ref: KARI/2/027/09
(1 Post)
The Virologist will be reporting to the Centre Director and shall ensure that research projects and activities run in a manner to contribute to and fulfill the center’s mandate and KARI mission. This position will be based at Veterinary Research Centre, Muguga.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Carry out research in the area of vaccine development/improvements. Study viral diseases (epidemiology, pathology, diagnosis) in emerging livestock. Support routine diagnostic activities for important trans-boundary, zoonotic and food safety viral pathogens.
  • Technology processing and packaging.
  • Prepare comprehensive research proposals to solicit for funding.
  • Reporting at all stages as required (Backto office, quarterly, annual, end of project etc).
Requirements for Appointment
  • Masters of Science degree.
  • PhD will be an added advantage.
  • Two (2) years experience in a Veterinary research field.
  • If a Vet, must be registered with the Kenya Veterinary Board.
  • Well versed with molecular biology techniques.
  • Knowledge of and experience in handling the commonly used tools and apparatus in virological experimentations (serology, virus isolation, VNT, PCR).
  • Efficient in data handling, storage, analysis and interpretation.
  • Be the first author of a verifiable paper in a conference/symposium with proceedings.
  • Be at least the second author of at least two (2) verifiable papers in referred journals.
  • Knowledge of Agricultural Product Value Chains (APVC) approach in research.
Data Manager and Analyst
Job Grade R.I.9 Ref: KARI/2/027/10 (1 Post)
The Data Manager and Analyst will be reporting to the Assistant Director, Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, the
successful candidate will be based at KARI Headquarters, Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Unit.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • In collaboration with ICT Specialist, design appropriate data bases and manage them.
  • Perform statistical analysis of Monitoring and Evaluation data using software such as STATA and SPSS, and other appropriate tools.
  • Contribute to analysis and reporting of impact of project interventions on targeted beneficiaries. Produce summarized monitoring and evaluation data reports as required.
  • Provide training and support on data collection activities in the field. This includes, among other things, backstopping, field preparation activities enumerator and data entry clerk training, data entry templates and data cleaning, data management and archiving data sets.
  • Be custodian and reference point for all M and E data/information.
Requirements for Appointment
  • A Bachelors/Masters degree in statistics or related field.
  • Three (3) years experience in information systems management or monitoring and evaluation or related work.
  • Proficiency in data management and analysis software such as Excel, Access, STATA, SPSS and CS Pro.
  • Must have excellent presentation/oral communication skills.
  • Good analytical and report writing skills.
  • Ability to perform with minimum supervision and possess excellent supervision skills.
Accounts Assistant
Job Grade R.I.8 Ref: KARI/2/027/11 (1 Post)
The Accounts Assistant will be reporting to the Officer – in – Charge, KARI Garissa and shall be responsible for all matters relating to efficient, effective and sustainable engagement and utilization of the Centre’s financial resources.
This position will be based at KARI Garissa Centre.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Verification of payment vouchers.
  • Collation of financial estimates.
  • Bank reconciliation.
  • Assist in preparation of financial reports.
  • Provide accurate, timely, reliable financial information as well as timely submissions of annual financial statements of accounts.
Requirements for Appointment
  • Served as a Senior Clerical Officer or its equivalent for at least 3 years.
  • Attained CPA I or its equivalent qualification from a recognised Institution
  • Shown proven competence in work performance and results.
  • Computer literacy.
Driver III 
Job Grade R.I.4 Ref: KARI/2/027/12 (1 Post)
The Driver will be reporting to the Officer – in – Charge, KARI Garissa and shall be responsible for the running of assigned vehicles in order to ensure appropriate conduct of research activities and provision of services within the Institute’s mandate.
This requires that the vehicles are kept in good working condition for usability and safety purposes. This position shall be based at KARI Garrisa Center.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Carrying out routine checks on the vehicle’s cooling and oil systems, electrical system, tyre pressure, brakes, etc.
  • Detecting and reporting malfunctioning of vehicle systems in time.
  • Maintenance of work tickets for vehicles assigned to him.
  • Driving the vehicle as authorized.
  • Ensuring that the servicing and repairs due are done in time.
  • Security and safety for the vehicle on and off the road.
  • Safety of the passengers and/or goods therein and maintaining cleanliness of the vehicle.
Requirements for Appointment
  • A minimum mean grade D in KCSE or its equivalent.
  • A current driving license free from current endorsements and valid for all of the classes of vehicles, which the candidate is required to drive.
  • Passed the Suitability Test for Drivers Grade I.
  • At least five (5) years satisfactory driving experience after obtaining the driving license.
  • Passed occupational Test Grade III.
  • A valid certificate of good conduct.
Remuneration to the above posts are as follows:-
Salary Scales J.G.
  • R.I.13: Ksh. 94,235×4,712 –8,947×1,673 – 44×5,013 – 120,270 p.m.
  • R.I.11: Ksh. 63,782×3,189 – 66,971×3,349 – 70,320×3,516 – 73,836×3,691 77,527×3,877 – 81,404 p.m.
  • R.I.10: Ksh. 40,835×2, 042 – 42,877×2, 144 – 45,021×2,251 – 47,272×2, 364 – 49,636p.m.
  • R.I. 9: Ksh. 35,275×1,764 – 37,039×1, 852 – 38,891×1,944 – 40,835×2,042 – 42,877p.m.
  • R.I.8: Ksh. 30,472×1,524 –96×1,599 – 35,275 p.m.
  • R.I.4: Ksh. 13,733×686 – 14,419×721 – 15,140×757 – 15,897×795 – 16,692×835 – 17,527 p.m.
Attractive allowances, commensurate with the responsibilities of the position will be payable.
Mode of Application:
Applicants should send a cover letter, copies of certificates, curriculum vitae and the names and addresses (including telephone, fax and email) of three referees who are knowledgeable about the candidates’ professional qualifications and work experience, photocopies of their academic and professional qualifications to
The Director,
Kenya Agricultural Research Institute,
Kaptagat Road,
P.O Box 57811- 00200,
Nairobi
so as reach him on or before 9th June 2010 at 10.00am.
The name and reference number of the position for which the application is made should be clearly marked on the envelope.