- Sep 18, 2025
- Nairobi, Kenya
- CapDev
The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), in partnership with the University of Queensland (UQ) and the University of Melbourne (UoM), is implementing a new fellowship model, the Africa-Asia Bioscience Challenge Fund (AABCF). This initiative builds on the previous AABCF model through research immersion/induction at ILRI/ Biosciences eastern and central Africa-International Livestock Research Institute (BecA-ILRI) Hub. The goal is to strengthen the capacity of national agricultural research and extension (NARES) scientists to implement climate-resilient livestock systems and biosciences in Africa and Asia. This initiative fosters regional expertise, promotes knowledge exchange, and advances sustainable research practices. The training program provides accessible, high-quality education tailored to both early and mid-career scientists engaged in climate-resilient livestock production systems and related biosciences research.
Scope of the Fellowship
Through the AABCF Fellowship, ILRI, UoM, and UQ are seeking up to 9 highly qualified applicants, three each from three selected countries in Southeast Asia (Cambodia, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, and Vietnam), to take part in training related to climate-smart livestock production systems. Selected applicants will participate in a three-month placement engaging in research, capacity-building, hands-on, and peer-learning activities throughout the fellowship. Fellows are expected to apply their newly acquired knowledge to strengthen their projects or areas of work back home, thereby contributing to regional research advances. Depending on their research topic, successful applicants may conduct their fellowship stays at ILRI in either Kenya or Ethiopia.
Objectives of the Fellowship Program
- To increase the research and technical capacity of early and mid-career scientists from the NARES in livestock and biosciences.
- To foster regional collaboration among national researchers and institutions.
- To provide scientists with more knowledge, skills, and practical tools in climate-resilient livestock production systems applicable to their research and geographical contexts.
- To contribute to sustainable livestock productivity and innovation through trained human capital.
Purpose
This Terms of Reference (ToR) document outlines the criteria, process, and responsibilities involved in selecting qualified early- and mid-career scientists to participate in a research induction program. The goal of the program is to enhance the scientists’ research skills and promote regional capacity and collaboration for sustainable livestock development.
(ToRs): (Detailed listing of what the fellow is expected to accomplish during the fellowship)
Responsibilities of Fellows
- Participate actively in all the entry, progress and exit seminars.
- Engage in peer learning and collaborative activities.
- Apply learned concepts to their research or work area.
- Submit training evaluations and feedback.
- Prepare a brief report or presentation demonstrating how they intend to utilize training in their research.
Reporting
- Fellows are required to submit monthly progress and final reports or presentations.
Position Requirements (Qualifications that the ideal candidate should have):
Eligibility Criteria
- Demonstrated and proven interest in ongoing research in climate-resilient livestock mitigation or biosciences-related climate resilience.
- Affiliation with a recognized public university or national research institutions in Cambodia, the Lao the Lao People’s Democratic Republic and Vietnam.
- Support/recommendation letter from the home institution
- Demonstrated motivation and commitment to applying training/placement knowledge in their research context.
- Proficiency in English (reading, writing, speaking).
Selection Criteria
- Relevance of research focus to livestock and biosciences.
- Quality and feasibility of proposed application of knowledge acquired in their research/practical work.
- Academic excellence and research experience.
- Clear motivation statement indicating how the training will benefit their current or future projects and career development.
- Two Supporting references or recommendation letters.
Selection Process
- Establishment of a selection panel comprising representatives from ILRI, BecA-ILRI Hub, University of Queensland, and University of Melbourne.
- Evaluation of applications based on set criteria.
- Shortlisting candidates for interviews.
- Final selection based on merit, relevance, and motivation.
- Notification of successful candidates
Fellowship duration
Three (3) months to be completed by February -2026
Fellowship Benefits
The fellowship will cover the following:
- Research costs
- Flight and visa costs
- Monthly stipend
- Medical insurance
- Technical supervision by ILRI Scientists
- Hosting costs (including space, ICT services etc.)
For any issue related to the application please contact
Nasser Yao at [email protected] or Leah Symekher at [email protected]
Application process
All applications should be sent to the AABCF Review and Selection Committee and MUST include the following (applications not containing these documents will not be considered):
- 1-page personal statement outlining research interests and motivation.
- 2-page brief research proposal or statement on how the training will impact their work and career.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Two Academic or professional referees
- Support/recommendation letter from the home institution
Applications must be submitted by clicking on the “APPLY NOW” tab on or before 17 September 2025
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
ILRI is an equal opportunity employer.