Research Associate (Software Development) Vacancy at CIFOR-ICRAF

CIFOR-ICRAF is seeking a Research Associate for software development to support digital innovation initiatives within its India Country Program. The consultancy position is designed to bridge the gap between scientific agroforestry research and practical field application through the development of digital tools for farmers, tree growers, and policymakers.

The role is based in New Delhi, India, and focuses on advancing digital solutions for agroforestry and Trees Outside Forests (TOF). The organization has set an application deadline of May 15, 2026, at 12:00 pm IST.

Technical Objectives and Deliverables

The Research Associate will be responsible for translating scientific workflows into interactive digital tools and enhancing the organization’s existing software infrastructure. The primary technical focus includes the development and maintenance of mobile applications using React Native for both Android and iOS platforms.

Key responsibilities for the position include:

• Reviewing and enhancing existing mobile application codebases and designing new user interfaces.
• Developing decision-support tools that convert scientific models into actionable digital outputs, including the creation of dashboards, maps, and charts.
• Managing and updating web portals to ensure they provide accessible digital resources for stakeholders.
• Implementing version control, database management, and hosting services for web-based platforms.

The selected consultant is expected to deliver updated mobile applications, functional decision-support tools integrated with scientific workflows, and comprehensive technical documentation. The contract requires the submission of progress reports on the 30th of each month, with a final comprehensive report due on May 25, 2027.

Qualifications and Contract Terms

CIFOR-ICRAF is targeting early-career professionals for this consultancy. Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, computer engineering, or geoinformatics, or possess an MCA or M.Tech degree. The organization requires 1-2 years of experience in software development.

Technical competencies required for the role include working knowledge of React Native and experience in web development and database management. Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, Java, and JavaScript is also sought to support the translation of scientific concepts into user-friendly tools.

The appointment is a consultancy contract with an initial duration of 12 months. This period includes a 6-month probation period, with potential renewal subject to performance, funding availability, and job requirements.

Organizational Context

The Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) and World Agroforestry (ICRAF) merged on January 1, 2019, to combine their expertise in forestry and agroforestry. The integrated organization operates as a member of CGIAR, a global research partnership focused on reducing poverty, enhancing food security, and improving natural resource management.

CIFOR-ICRAF states that it envisions a more equitable world where trees enhance the environment and well-being for all. The India Country Program specifically utilizes technology-driven solutions to promote sustainable natural resource management and improve livelihoods across the Global South.

The current recruitment effort is part of a broader organizational strategy toward knowledge-led digital engagement, aiming to transform scientific exploration into living knowledge that can be applied to climate and biodiversity crises.