About the Organization
The Horn of Africa Regional Environment Centre and Network (HoA-REC&N) is a world-class regional institution based at Addis Ababa University. Established to bridge the critical gap between environmental science, policy, and practice, the Centre serves as a pivotal knowledge-exchange platform for the Horn of Africa region. Our mission is centered on the sustainable management of natural resources, ensuring that academic research translates into tangible, life-changing environmental governance and policy.
We pride ourselves on a rich organizational legacy that fosters collaboration between academic researchers, policymakers, and local communities. By facilitating knowledge sharing and providing capacity-building opportunities for both experts and decision-makers, we ensure that the region’s environmental challenges are met with innovative, evidence-based solutions. Our network extends across international boundaries, uniting regional partners to protect the diverse ecosystems of the East African landscape.
At HoA-REC&N, we believe that our greatest asset is our diverse and inclusive workforce. Our culture is built on the pillars of mutual respect, intellectual curiosity, and a shared commitment to environmental justice. We operate in an environment that encourages interdisciplinary thinking, where professionals from various backgrounds come together to solve complex issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and ecosystem degradation.
We are deeply committed to fostering an equitable workplace that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. We recognize that environmental challenges disproportionately affect different groups, and we believe that a diverse team brings the necessary perspectives to create inclusive solutions. We strive to provide a supportive atmosphere where every individual has the opportunity to grow professionally and contribute to a sustainable future.
We strongly encourage women and individuals from underrepresented groups to apply for these positions. HoA-REC&N is dedicated to breaking down barriers in the scientific and environmental sectors, and we actively seek to empower female leadership in research and policy. Your unique perspective is vital to our mission, and we provide the professional support necessary to help you thrive in high-impact leadership roles.
Job Description and Strategic Impact
The roles advertised—Research Scientist, Senior Research Fellow, and Research Fellow—are fundamental to the strategic vision of HoA-REC&N. These positions represent the intellectual engine of our organization, driving the research agendas that influence national and regional policies. By joining our team, you will be at the forefront of designing high-impact research programs that address the most pressing environmental crises of our time.
The strategic importance of these roles cannot be overstated. As the Horn of Africa faces increasing pressure from climate change and resource scarcity, your work will provide the evidence-based framework needed for regional governments and international partners to make informed decisions. You will be responsible for synthesizing complex data into actionable insights, ensuring that the Centre remains a leading authority on sustainable development and ecosystem management.
A “day-in-the-life” at the Centre involves a dynamic mix of high-level strategic planning, collaborative fieldwork, and rigorous academic analysis. You will find yourself engaging with diverse stakeholders, from local community leaders to international donors. This variety ensures a stimulating work environment where your professional growth is constant. You will have the opportunity to lead multi-country projects, gain exposure to international environmental law, and contribute to global climate summits.
We view these roles as long-term investments in human capital. HoA-REC&N offers a clear pathway for career development, providing researchers with the resources to publish in top-tier journals and lead international consortiums. Whether you are an early-career researcher or a seasoned expert, the Centre provides a platform to amplify your influence and establish yourself as a thought leader in the environmental sector.
Ultimately, your impact will be measured by the resilience of the ecosystems and communities we protect. By improving environmental governance and promoting sustainable value chains, you will help secure a greener, more prosperous future for millions of people across the Horn of Africa. This is more than a job; it is a chance to leave a lasting legacy on the African continent.
Job Positions and Requirements
Research Scientist (Director for Research)
Educational Qualification: PhD in Environmental Science or a related field.
Work Experience: Minimum of 10-15 years of relevant experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role, preferably in a research institution.
Job Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with occasional travel to countries in the Horn of Africa region.
Salary: Negotiable/Per Scale.
No. Required: One.
Senior Research Fellow
Educational Qualification: PhD in Environmental Science and/or a relevant field.
Work Experience: Minimum of 7-10 years of work and relevant research experience with a proven record of publications.
Job Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with occasional travel to countries in the Horn of Africa region.
Salary: Negotiable/Per Scale.
No. Required: One.
Research Fellow
Educational Qualification: PhD degree in Environmental Science and/or related fields.
Work Experience: 3-5 years of relevant experience (a strong academic and research background is essential for early-career candidates).
Job Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with occasional travel to countries in the Horn of Africa region.
Salary: Negotiable/Per Scale.
No. Required: One.
Employment Type and Compensation
The positions are offered on a contract basis with the possibility of extension based on performance and the availability of funds. We offer a stable and highly professional working environment within the prestigious Addis Ababa University framework. Our staff members enjoy the security of working for a reputable regional institution that is well-integrated into both local and international environmental networks.
The compensation package at HoA-REC&N is designed to be highly competitive and growth-oriented, reflecting the high level of expertise required for these roles. We understand that our researchers are top-tier professionals, and our salary scales are commensurate with international standards for regional organizations. In addition to salary, we provide a stimulating environment that encourages professional development through workshops, international conferences, and networking opportunities.
Beyond the financial rewards, the “intellectual compensation” of working at the Centre is significant. You will have access to unique datasets, state-of-the-art research facilities, and a network of world-renowned experts. The opportunity to participate in cross-border research projects and lead high-level policy dialogues provides a level of professional fulfillment that few other institutions in the region can offer.
How to Apply
We aim to make the application process as streamlined and accessible as possible. Interested and competent applicants are invited to submit their application package, which should include a detailed CV highlighting relevant qualifications and experience, and a cover letter/motivation letter in English clearly stating the position you are applying for. Please also include the contact details of at least three professional referees.
Please be advised that scanned certificates, diplomas, or other academic attachments are NOT required during the initial application phase. We encourage you to focus your application on your professional narrative, research impact, and how your skills align with the requirements of the role. This approach ensures that we can review applications efficiently while focusing on the merit of your professional journey.
Original academic documents and certificates will be required only for physical verification during the interview stage. Candidates who are invited for an interview will be asked to bring their original credentials for authentication by our Human Resources department. This step is a standard part of our final selection process to ensure the integrity of our recruitment.
Due to the high volume of applications we receive, please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment and interviews. If you do not hear from us within a reasonable timeframe after the deadline, please assume that your application has not been successful on this occasion. We appreciate the time and effort every candidate puts into their application.
Following the application deadline, our selection committee will conduct a rigorous review of all submissions. Shortlisted candidates will be notified of the next steps, which may include technical assessments and panel interviews. The primary channel for all applications is via email.
Interested candidates should submit their application via email to: recruitment@hoarec.org as the primary channel.
Application Deadline
November 04, 2026