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Scientist – Tree Farming
Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR)
Full-time
Close on 12 Apr 2026
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Posted 2 days ago
Job Description

Reference number: 2608
Job status: In-progress
Job category: Local Position
Duty station: New Delhi, India
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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.

CIFOR-ICRAF is looking for a

Scientist – Tree Farming


Overview

We are looking for an energetic, innovative and experienced tree farming scientist to lead our efforts to enhance adoption and scaling of integrated tree farming systems in agricultural landscapes. The role involves leading evidence-based research on improving the efficiency of integrated tree farming systems, including sustainable improvement in yields, optimisation of management practices, realization of higher net income for farmers and consequently an increased willingness to adopt tree farming by farmers and other stakeholders, especially in tree deficit landscapes. The position will be part of the India Country Program and will work closely with interdisciplinary research teams, state-level partners, government institutions, and private sector stakeholders. The role will have national-level responsibilities, with implementation support across priority states and selected landscapes in India.


Duties and responsibilities

  1. Develop and implement strategies to adopt integrated tree farming systems and to enhance overall farm productivity, sustainability, and biodiversity.
  2. Manage and support the implementation of tree farming practices in collaboration with small and marginal farmers and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)
  3. Work independently and/or closely with the India Country Director to develop new collaborative research ideas/proposals for possible funding support to address evolving priorities of Trees Outside Forests (TOF) domain.
  4. Coordinate with relevant stakeholders to develop shared priorities for collaborative research and implementation efforts, ensure proper adoption of best practices, monitor progress, and address challenges effectively.
  5. Build and maintain strong relationships with R&D organisations focused on tree farming, with the intention of supporting improvements to research programs aimed at improving integrated, treebased agriculture.

Education, knowledge and experience

• Master’s or Ph.D. in Agroforestry, Agriculture or Allied Agricultural Sciences, Forestry or equivalent, with emphasis on farm forestry. A candidate with Ph.D. on a topic relevant to the position will be preferred.
• 10 years or more of progressive experience with farm forestry and/or integrated tree-based agricultural systems. The right candidate will have a strong grounding in systems science and its application and have a proven track record of innovation, working in teams and be a highly motivated self-starter.

Personal attributes and competencies

• Ability to plan and prioritize workload and strong monitoring, reporting, and writing skills.
• Good analytical skills, logical and independent mind, and interpersonal skills to produce a succinct report and research products/publications.
• Basic information technology knowledge (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, or any statistical software).
• Strong character, a multitasking person who can work under pressure.
• Well organized; able to meet deadlines, with a good understanding of time management.
• Proactive and self-motivated, able to work independently as well as in a team.
• Ability to work in a multi-disciplinary team environment, while functioning as an individual contributor.
• Proficiency in English communication (verbal and written).
• Willing to learn new skills/knowledge related to the scope/content of specific projects.
• Generates creative, practical approaches to overcome challenging situations.
• Willing to receive feedback from others.
• Has a vision to develop the organization and an intention of continuous improvement.

Terms and conditions

• This is a Locally Recruited Staff (LRS) position. CIFOR-ICRAF offers competitive remuneration in local currency, commensurate with skills and experience.
• The appointment will be for 3 (three) years with the possibility of extension contingent upon performance, continued relevance of the position, and available resources.
• The duty station will be in New Delhi, India.
To apply, please visit our career site at: https://www.cifor-icraf.org/about/work-with-us/
To learn more about CIFOR-ICRAF, please visit our websites at: https://www.cifor-icraf.org
CIFOR-ICRAF promotes Gender Diversity – Applications from women professionals are encouraged.
CIFOR-ICRAF is an equal opportunity employer. It fosters a multicultural work environment that values gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity.

Application process

The application deadline is 13 Apr 2026
We will acknowledge all applications, but will contact only short-listed candidates.

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