Head of Behavioural & Chemical Ecology Unit

Overall purpose of the job

• To provide research and programmatic leadership to the Behavioural and Chemical Ecology Unit.
• Coordinate and promote the broad field of chemical ecology through an interdisciplinary research approach across icipe’s 4-H Themes and within the framework of One Health.
• To maintain a portfolio of research that is aligned with icipe’s strategic goals.
• To undertake research of the highest quality through partnerships, within, nationally, regionally and internationally.
• To facilitate new initiatives and opportunities in chemical ecology through resource mobilisation.
• To build capacity through the training of the next generation of globally competitive scientists.
• To disseminate research findings through high level publications and presentations at scientific/technical meetings.

Specific Duties:

• Contributes to Centre’s efforts to engage with global stakeholders in research and capacity building.
• Manages human, fiscal and physical resources of the Unit.
• Conducts research to develop semiochemical-based management tools for improved food production, animal and human health.
• Conducts research to promote use of beneficial organisms that conserve biodiversity.
• Actively seek and secure external support for the activities of the Unit, including resources to develop and grow a personal research portfolio.
• Enhance scientific productivity of the Unit through mentoring and supervising scientists, postgraduate students, and high-quality publications.
• Initiate periodic reviews of the performance of the Unit to ensure relevance and quality.
• Act as a spokesperson and representative of the Unit.
• Ensure the Unit meets its legal and reporting responsibilities to all stakeholders including national licensing authorities and donors.

Requirements/Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry from a reputable university, with a strong background in organic chemistry or related sciences but preferably with expertise in Chemical Ecology plus appropriate or additional education in organic spectroscopy.
• Ten (10) years’ experience gained at a senior level in either a research organization or university.
• Track-record in chemical ecology and interdisciplinary research in tropical insect science.

Other desirable attributes

• Excellent publication track record.
• Track record of writing successful proposals for large grants.
• Proven record of managing large resources (both financial and human) in a research environment.
• Experience in capacity building through supervision and mentorship of MSc and PhD students.
• Excellent communication skills are mandatory.
• Track record of exemplary leadership qualities are essential.
• High degree of organisation, adaptability and prioritisation