Reference number: 202602
Job status: In-progress
Job category: Global Position
Duty station: Nairobi, Kenya
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CIFOR-ICRAF
The Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) and World Agroforestry (ICRAF) envision a more equitable world where trees in all landscapes, from drylands to the humid tropics, enhance the environment and well-being for all. CIFOR and ICRAF are non-profit science institutions that build and apply evidence to today’s most pressing challenges, including energy insecurity and the climate and biodiversity crises. Over a combined total of 65 years, we have built vast knowledge on forests and trees outside of forests in agricultural landscapes (agroforestry). Using a multidisciplinary approach, we seek to improve lives and to protect and restore ecosystems. Our work focuses on innovative research, partnering for impact, and engaging with stakeholders on policies and practices to benefit people and the planet. Founded in 1993 and 1978, CIFOR and ICRAF are members of CGIAR, a global research partnership for a food secure future dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing food and nutrition security, and improving natural resources.

Overview

Team Leader, Knowledge Hub, provide leadership and strategic guidance for advancing the delivery of actionable evidence and solutions from CIFOR-ICRAF research-in-development through the transformation of CIFOR-ICRAF institutional knowledge management systems and processes into an integrated knowledge synthesis. The role will focus on the following functional areas: • Knowledge management: Assist in retaining and transferring CIFOR-ICRAF science-based knowledge and expertise by developing policies, methodologies and tools for establishing and implementing knowledge management (KM) systems as well as by providing guidance, support, and internal staff training for planning, designing, and implementing KM programs. • Data and information management: Enable the availability and accessibility of quality data, knowledge products, and information from CIFOR-ICRAF research and the strengthening of information capacities of partners through the collection, management, and preservation of research information as well as the provision of information management services. • AI Institutional Policy and applications: Lead the development and implementation of CIFOR-ICRAF AI institutional policy and applications ensuring data quality in application of AI to research projects, programs and operations across the institution.

Duties and responsibilities

Lead and coordinate Knowledge Synthesis and Artificial intelligence (AI)

• Lead and coordinate the design and implementation of an institutional strategy to transform knowledge synthesis and management across CIFOR-ICRAF: digital platforms, advanced (AI-powered) tools, data governance, metadata standards, and user accessibility, such that the systems empower CIFOR-ICRAF staff and scientists.
• Ensure that internal knowledge synthesis systems support multi–lingual outputs and ensures equitable access to information across regions, including Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
• Collaborate with internal unit leaders and theme coordinators and external partners to ensure knowledge products are timely, relevant, innovative and reach policy and practitioner audiences.
• Oversee monitoring and evaluation of knowledge uptake, usage metrics, and continuous improvement of knowledge workflows.
• Provide training and mentorship to research staff and partners on knowledge management best practices and tools.
• Advanceastrong integrated knowledge management, and AIstrategyforCIFOR-ICRAFtoachieveitsmission and deliver its value proposition.
• Strategic involvement and expert systems knowledge input in improving corporate knowledge management and business intelligence solutions to ensure accurate management and successful delivery of CIFOR-ICRAF research programs.
• Provide expert systems knowledge input into projects relating to conceptualization and practice in applying knowledge, information, and learning in transformative partnership platforms, engagement landscapes, and innovation systems.
• Work closely with ICT and IS to design knowledge management solutions for supporting the regular review of business processes and controls as well as for the regular corporate reporting that meet CIFOR-ICRAF business needs.

Directing knowledge management and Learning Systems

• Maintain and enhancesystemforcapturing,preparing,andenrichingknowledge managementresources, includingbestpractices,lessonslearned, training materials, anddocumentarchiving.
• Identify,promote, andsupport opportunities of CIFOR-ICRAF research commercialization of its knowledge-based innovations.
• Advance knowledge sharing and learning approachesandtoolsacrossthe CIFOR-ICRAFresearchportfolio,throughadvisingand supportingstaff,including internal training andprofessionaldevelopment.
• Work closely with the monitoring, evaluation and learning for impact team to mainstream knowledge management in data collection and data management.
• Work closely with the Communications group to ensure the proper (metadata) description, harvesting, and sharing of research outputs in the corporate communication channels and platforms
• Work with subject matter experts (scientists) to package bite-sized learning products into interactive and engaging (virtual) learning opportunities.
• Ensuretheeffectivenessofprogramsandactivitiesinknowledge and information management, and AI through regular monitoring, measurement, analysis,andevaluation.

Programme and Project Development and Implementation

• Develop and lead projects and/or programs including ensuring that the projects and/or programs meets all expected outputs and outcomes.
• Support Resource mobilization by identifying funding opportunities, preparing proposals, and securing additional resources for project sustainability.
• Work closely with the research leaders and scientists in the development and implementation of programs and projects for the institution
• Support the Legal Office with strategic guidance, particularly in areas related to AI, Intellectual Assets/Property, commercialization, and private sector engagement.
• Serve as expert supporting AI application across the institution.
• Actasfocalpoint for relevant AI communities of practice and networks, including those of the CGIAR.
• Participate as the ICRAF representative in the Open Access Working Group (OAWG) of the CG.

Education, knowledge and experience

Requirements
•PhD in relevant discipline (e.g., AI, genetic resources, intellectual property, knowledge management, information science) or equivalent experience.
•At least 8 years post?PhD experience in research, data governance, and/or knowledge management in international development.
•Proven record of leading research projects as PI, with track record of publications and fundraising.
•Strong budget management and donor?reporting experience.
•Sound knowledge and understanding of the CGIAR or other international organization operational strategies, processes, and instruments.

Terms and conditions

Terms and conditions
•This is a Globally Recruited Position (GRS). CIFOR-ICRAF offers competitive remuneration commensurate with skills and experience.
•The initial appointment will be for two (2) years, with a six-month probationary period, with the possibility of extension contingent upon performance, continued relevance of the position and available resources.
•The duty station will be in Nairobi CIFOR-ICRAF Offices,
•This is an internal advert thus only staff, consultants, associates, and temp staff are encouraged to apply.

Application process

The application deadline is 23 Jan 2026
We will acknowledge all applications, but will contact only short-listed candidates.