Position Title: Research Fellowship - Pig & Cattle induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs) and Assisted Reproductive Technologies

Reference Number: REF: RF/ILRI/LGNFR/01/2026
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Duration: 6 months
About the Organization

The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) works to improve food and nutritional security and reduce poverty in developing countries through research for efficient, safe and sustainable use of livestock. ILRI is a CGIAR research center dedicated to animal agriculture research and operates across Africa and Asia. ILRI contributes to the CGIAR vision of sustainable food, land, and water systems that support resilient livelihoods and equitable development.

About the Fellowship

The Centre for Tropical Livestock Genetics and Health (CTLGH) hosted at the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) programme on Cellular Resources, Functional Genomics and Assisted Reproductive Technology is seeking three (3) highly motivated fellows to support cutting-edge livestock research in induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs) biology and Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ARTs), with a focus on indigenous pigs and cattle.

This fellowship is designed to provide hands-on research training, mentorship, and capacity development in advanced livestock conservation and reproductive biotechnologies. The successful fellows will work closely with experienced researchers and laboratory technicians, contributing to ongoing research projects in the following areas:

• Livestock stem cell derivation and culture
• In vitro fertilization (IVF), embryo culture and transfer
• Embryo manipulation and cryopreservation
• Genetic and molecular characterization of embryos and stem cells
• Reproductive biotechnology for livestock improvement

This fellowship offers a unique opportunity for Fellows to gain hands-on laboratory experience, enhance their research competencies, and actively contribute to innovative livestock biotechnology solutions relevant to Africa and Asia.

Responsibilities

Under the supervision of a Research Scientist, the intern will contribute to:

• Design and implementation of laboratory experiments related to stem cell biology and embryo technologies
• Support sample collection, preparation, handling, and processing in accordance with established protocols
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date laboratory records, and contribute to data entry, management, and basic analysis
• Literature reviews, journal clubs, and research team meetings
• Documentation of experimental procedures, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and preparation of technical reports
• Contribute to laboratory organization, inventory management, and ensure adherence to biosafety and quality standards

Eligibility requirements

Applicants must meet the following requirements at the time of application:

• Be affiliated with a recognized livestock breeding or research institution in Kenya, Uganda, or India
• Be an early-career practitioner in stem cell biology, assisted reproductive technologies (ART), or a closely related field
• Demonstrate a strong interest in livestock biotechnology and reproductive technologies
• Possess basic laboratory skills in molecular biology, cell culture, embryology, or related techniques (an added advantage)
• Show clear motivation and commitment to applying acquired knowledge and skills within their national research or development context
• Demonstrate proficiency in English language(reading, writing, and speaking)
• Have working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications (e.g., Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Terms of Appointment

The fellowship is offered under the Cellular Resources, Functional Genomics and Biotechnology Programme of the Centre for Tropical Livestock Genetics and Health (CTLGH) and the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) framework and is designed as a short-term professional training placement to complement ongoing national professional development programmes. Fellows will typically engage on a full-time basis (five days per week) under the supervision of an assigned staff mentor for the duration of the placement. The internship package includes:

• International travel and visa costs, where applicable
• Coverage of research-related costs directly associated with the fellowships activities
• A monthly stipend to support basic living expenses during the internship period
• Medical insurance for the duration of the internship
• Dedicated mentorship by ILRI scientists and collaborating partners, including access to professional development and networking opportunities
• Provision of hosting support, including workspace, laboratory access, and ICT services

How to Apply

• A one-page cover letter outlining the applicant’s research interests and motivation for applying to the internship
• A one-page statement describing how the fellowship will contribute to the applicant’s career development and support ongoing livestock breeding programmes within their national institution
• An up-to-date Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• A valid professional certificate or official document authorizing the applicant to perform veterinary or related professional services in their home country
• A support/recommendation letter from a representative of the applicant’s institution, confirming authorization to participate in the fellowship for its full duration
• Contact details of two professional referees

Applicants are encouraged to ensure that all documents are clearly labeled and submitted as a single application package, where possible.

For any issue related to the application, please contact Christian Tiambo at c.tiambo@cgiar.org. Applications must be submitted through our portal https://ilri.simplicant.com on or before 8th May 2026.

We thank all applicants for their interest in working for ILRI. Due to the volume of applications, only short-listed 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.

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