Overall Purpose of the Job

• To develop and evaluate innovative insect-based feed formulations that enhance animal nutrition, health, productivity, and sustainability under the Waste to Cash Eco Project.

Specific Duties

• Research and Development: Design and conduct field and laboratory-based experiments to evaluate the nutritional efficiency and digestibility, metabolic and health markers, immunity, growth performance and productivity, environmental impact and sustainability, and economic viability of edible insect-based feeds.
• Data Collection and Analysis: Collect and analyse data from different experiments including feeding trials, and laboratory analyses.
• Documentation, reporting, and dissemination: Prepare progress and technical project reports.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals. Present research findings at scientific conferences, workshops, and other relevant forums.
• Training and Capacity Building: Participate in training sessions for students, farmers, and partners  on insect-based feed formulation, handling, and application to optimize quality.
• Innovation: Keep abreast of the latest scientific developments in insect farming, feed formulation, and livestock nutrition. Develop innovative feeding strategies incorporating insect-derived feed ingredients to address specific nutritional needs of different animal species.
• Laboratory and Equipment Maintenance: Ensure proper maintenance, calibration, and operation of laboratory and field equipment used in feed formulation and evaluation studies.
• Perform any other responsibility assigned by the supervisor and/or senior project team member.

Requirements/Qualifications

• BSc in Animal Nutrition, Animal Science, Entomology or related program. MSc. is an added advantage.
• At least 3 years of field experience in edible insect farming, insect-based feed formulation and application.
• Practical knowledge in experimental design, feeding trials for ruminants and nonruminants, data collection, data analysis (using relevant statistical software), scientific writing and publication.
• Hands-on experience in training farmers and other stakeholders on edible insect-related activities.

Other Desirable Attributes

• Proficiency in data analysis and research methodologies.
• Computer literacy and analytical skills.
• Good working knowledge of written and spoken English and Swahili is essential.
• Ability to operate animal feed machines for experimental feed formulation.
• Strong understanding of animal nutrition, feed formulation, feeding trials, and insect-based feed technologies for ruminants and nonruminants.
• Ability to formulate insect-based feeds using professional feed formulation software like BRILL or related software.
• Familiarity with nutritional analysis methods for feeds including insect-based feeds.