Senior Agronomy Research Scientist Job Vacancy in Kismayo, Somalia – Agriculture & Food Security

August 13, 2026
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Job Description

Position: Senior Agronomy Research Scientist

Company: International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)

Location: Kismayo, Somalia

Experience: 7+ years

Education: PhD in Agronomy or Plant Science

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Agriculture & Food Security

Department: Research and Development

Salary: 4,500,000 – 7,500,000 SSP

Vacancies: 1

Company Overview

The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is a specialized United Nations agency dedicated to investing in rural people. We work to boost food production, increase incomes, and improve nutrition and livelihoods for smallholder farmers across the globe. Our mission is to empower rural communities to achieve sustainable economic growth and food security. By providing targeted financial support and technical expertise, we help combat poverty and hunger in the most vulnerable regions. We are currently expanding our footprint in East Africa to address climate resilience and agricultural productivity through innovative scientific research and field-based interventions.

Job Overview

We are seeking a highly qualified Senior Agronomy Research Scientist to lead our agricultural innovation initiatives in the Lower Juba region. This role is critical for developing climate-smart agricultural practices that can withstand the changing environmental conditions in Somalia. The successful candidate will design, implement, and oversee large-scale field trials to identify high-yield, drought-resistant crop varieties. This position offers exceptional career opportunities in Somalia for professionals dedicated to scientific excellence and humanitarian impact. You will work closely with local farming cooperatives and international research partners to translate laboratory findings into practical field applications. For more information on our global initiatives, please visit https://somaliajobsearch.com.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design and manage multi-location field experiments to test soil fertility and crop performance.
  • Analyze complex datasets to determine the efficacy of new irrigation techniques and seed varieties.
  • Collaborate with local government agencies to integrate research findings into national agricultural policies.
  • Publish technical reports and scientific papers detailing research outcomes and recommendations.
  • Supervise a team of field technicians and junior researchers in data collection and trial maintenance.
  • Monitor environmental impact assessments related to new agricultural technologies.

Required Skills

  • Advanced statistical modeling and data analysis using R, Python, or SPSS.
  • Deep understanding of soil science, plant pathology, and pest management.
  • Expertise in climate-resilient agricultural methodologies and sustainable farming.
  • Strong project management skills and ability to lead multidisciplinary teams.
  • Excellent technical writing and scientific communication abilities.

Education

A PhD in Agronomy, Plant Science, Soil Science, or a closely related agricultural science field is mandatory. Candidates must demonstrate a strong track record of published research in peer-reviewed journals.

Experience

A minimum of seven years of professional experience in agricultural research, preferably in sub-Saharan Africa or similar semi-arid environments. Proven experience in managing large-scale research projects and working with international development organizations is highly preferred.

Salary

The monthly salary for this position ranges from 4,500,000 SSP to 7,500,000 SSP, depending on the candidate’s expertise and qualifications. This competitive package reflects the high level of specialization required for this role.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive health and life insurance coverage.
  • Performance-based annual bonuses.
  • Subsidized housing and transportation allowances.
  • Generous annual leave and parental leave policies.
  • Professional development and conference attendance support.

Explore more career paths via https://nigeriajobsearch.com/vacancy-in-nigeria/.

Training

  • Advanced GIS and Remote Sensing for Agriculture.
  • Leadership and Strategic Management for Research Scientists.
  • Climate Adaptation and Resilience Training Modules.

Working Environment

The working environment is a hybrid of office-based analytical work and intensive field-based research. You will spend significant time in rural Kismayo, working directly in agricultural fields under various weather conditions. This role requires physical stamina and a willingness to travel to remote farming communities to ensure data accuracy and community engagement.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their CV, a cover letter detailing their research achievements, and a list of publications through our official portal. We prioritize candidates who demonstrate a commitment to sustainable development and food security in East Africa. For more job vacancies in the region, check https://rwandajobsearch.com/job-vacancy-in-rwanda/.

Equal Opportunity Statement

IFAD is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, or disability. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals seeking employment in Somalia.