The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), in partnership with the University of Queensland (UQ) and the University of Melbourne (UoM), is implementing a new fellowship model, the Africa-Asia Bioscience Challenge Fund (AABCF). This initiative builds on the previous AABCF model through research immersion/induction at ILRI/ Biosciences eastern and central Africa-International Livestock Research Institute (BecA-ILRI) Hub. The goal is to strengthen the capacity of national agricultural research and extension (NARES) scientists to implement climate-resilient livestock systems and biosciences in Africa and Asia. This initiative fosters regional expertise, promotes knowledge exchange, and advances sustainable research practices. The training program provides accessible, high-quality education tailored to both early and mid-career scientists engaged in climate-resilient livestock production systems and related biosciences research.

Scope of the Fellowship

Through the AABCF Fellowship, ILRI, UoM, and UQ are seeking up to 9 highly qualified applicants, three each from three  selected countries in Southeast Asia (Cambodia, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, and Vietnam), to take part in training related to climate-smart livestock production systems. Selected applicants will participate in a three-month placement engaging in research, capacity-building, hands-on, and peer-learning activities throughout the fellowship. Fellows are expected to apply their newly acquired knowledge to strengthen their projects or areas of work back home, thereby contributing to regional research advances. Depending on their research topic, successful applicants may conduct their fellowship stays at ILRI in either Kenya or Ethiopia.

Objectives of the Fellowship Program

Purpose

This Terms of Reference (ToR) document outlines the criteria, process, and responsibilities involved in selecting qualified early- and mid-career scientists to participate in a research induction program. The goal of the program is to enhance the scientists’ research skills and promote regional capacity and collaboration for sustainable livestock development.

 (ToRs): (Detailed listing of what the fellow is expected to accomplish during the fellowship)

Responsibilities of Fellows

Reporting

Eligibility Criteria

Selection Criteria

Selection Process

Fellowship duration

Three (3) months to be completed by February  -2026

Fellowship Benefits

The fellowship will cover the following:

For any issue related to the application please contact

Nasser Yao at  or Leah Symekher at 

Application process

All applications should be sent to the AABCF Review and Selection Committee and MUST include the following (applications not containing these documents will not be considered):

Applications must be submitted by clicking on the “APPLY NOW” tab on or before 17 September 2025 

We thank all applicants for their interest in working for ILRI. 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 our websites at http://www.ilri.org