The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) seeks to recruit an MSc graduate fellow to undertake research on Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The fellow will be hosted by the Engineering Facility and Projects Unit in Addis Ababa – Ethiopia.

ILRI works with partners worldwide to enhance the roles that livestock play in food security and poverty alleviation, principally in Africa and Asia. The outcomes of these research partnerships help people in developing countries keep their farm animals alive and productive, increase and sustain their livestock and farm productivity, find profitable markets for their animal products, and reduce the risk of livestock-related diseases. www.ilri.org

About the position:

The primary objective of this fellowship is to support ILRI in the GHG accounting process. The fellow will work closely with the Sustainability Committee to develop a comprehensive plan for GHG accounting. The Sustainability Committee plays a crucial role in the GHG emission accounting including providing oversight to ensure the GHG accounting process is accurate, transparent, and aligns with sustainability goals; Guiding Strategy i.e. Setting emission reduction targets and integrating them into the Institutional strategy; Monitoring Progress by reviewing emissions data and performance against targets, ensuring compliance; Managing Risks by Identifying and mitigating risks related to GHG emissions, such as regulatory or reputational risks; Engaging Stakeholders to Facilitate communication with internal and external stakeholders about GHG efforts and Promoting Improvement by encouraging continuous improvement in GHG accounting practices through regular reviews and adoption of new methods.

Scope of Work:

1. Carbon Footprint Study
   • Define Scope and Boundaries: Define the scope of the carbon footprint study (organizational boundary). Establish operational boundaries covering Scope 1 (direct emissions from controlled sources), Scope 2 (indirect emissions from purchased energy), and Scope 3 (indirect emissions from the value chain).
   • Identify Emission Sources: Conduct a thorough identification of all emission sources across Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3 categories.
2. Data Collection
   • Develop Data Collection Tools: Create detailed tools for data collection, including spreadsheets and questionnaires tailored to capture relevant emission sources for each scope.
   • Coordinate Data Collection: Work with team members and relevant stakeholders to collect necessary activity data. Ensure data submission within stipulated time frames.
   • Assist Data Providers: Provide virtual assistance and clear instructions to process owners on how to accurately fill, obtain, and derive the required data.
3. Data Authentication
   • Verify Data Accuracy: Authenticate the collected data to ensure accuracy and completeness. This includes cross-checking submitted data against source documents and industry standards.
   • Document Data Sources: Maintain detailed records of data sources and authentication processes. This archive will serve for future reference and potential baseline adjustments.
4. Development of Carbon Footprint Tool and Report
   • Calculate GHG Emissions: Utilize recognized standards (GHG Protocol and ISO 14064-1) to calculate ILRI’s GHG emissions inventory for the base year (2022), providing a detailed breakdown by scope and emission source.
   • Create a Calculation Tool: Develop an Excel-based tool for future GHG accounting. This tool should be user-friendly and include all necessary formulas and instructions.
   • Prepare Preliminary Report: Compile the preliminary findings into a comprehensive Carbon Footprint Report. This report should include an analysis of the emissions data and initial recommendations for potential mitigation measures.
   • Stakeholder Engagement: Present and discuss the preliminary Carbon Footprint Report with ILRI stakeholders, addressing any questions and incorporating feedback.

Position requirements:

The ideal candidate should: –

1. Have registered in a recognized university and is currently pursuing an MSc in environmental science, sustainability, or a related field.
2. Have completed their MSc course work and is ready to begin the research component of their study.
3. Be familiar with GHG accounting standards such as the GHG Protocol and ISO 14064-1.
4. Demonstrate good understanding of data handling techniques, analysis, especially involving use of statistical packages.
5. Have good written and oral communication skills in the English language.

Location: ILRI Addis Ababa – Ethiopia.

Duration: 6 months.

Terms of appointment and benefits: ILRI will offer a monthly stipend to cover living expenses in the project location, medical insurance, and cover research expenses. The fellow will receive capacity development opportunities from ILRI.

How to apply:

All applications MUST include the following (applications not containing these documents will not be considered):

• a cover letter addressed to Capacity Development Manager, ILRI, expressing interest in the fellowship position and the motivation. The position title and reference number (REF: ILRI MSc – GF/ENG/01/2024) should be clearly marked on the subject line of the cover letter.
• CV, including names and addresses (including telephone and email) of three referees who are knowledgeable about the candidate’s professional qualifications and work experience.
• academic qualification certificates/transcripts.

Applications must be submitted by clicking on the tab “APPLY NOW” on or before 27th September 2024.

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 http://www.ilri.org