
The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI)
The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) is offering a paid ILRI internship Nairobi, Kenya, through its Capacity Development (CapDev) unit. This is a short-term academic training placement for young professionals who want to connect theory to practice in a real research environment. Internships usually last 3 months or less, though they can run up to 6 months. Interns are expected to resume their studies upon completion of the internship.
About ILRI
ILRI works to improve food and nutritional security and reduce poverty in developing countries through research for efficient, safe, and sustainable use of livestock. It is the only one of 15 CGIAR research centres dedicated entirely to animal agriculture research for the developing world.
Co-hosted by Kenya and Ethiopia, ILRI has regional or country offices and projects in East, South, and Southeast Asia, as well as Central, East, Southern, and West Africa.
Capacity development is an important part of the institute’s mandate and cuts across all its research and development areas. The CapDev unit coordinates this work, and it is the unit under which the ILRI internship in Nairobi is listed.
About the ILRI Internship in Nairobi
Internships at ILRI are short-term academic training for young professionals who join the institute for a short period as part of their academic curriculum. The internship aims to help students connect theory to practice, as well as to nurture young minds into livestock agriculture.
Interns work five days per week under the supervision and mentorship of a staff member in the department or program to which they are assigned. This structure gives interns direct exposure to ongoing research and development work at one of the world’s leading livestock research institutes.
Why the Opportunity Matters
The ILRI internship Nairobi offers a rare chance for students to gain hands-on experience at an international research centre dedicated entirely to animal agriculture research for the developing world. Interns work alongside experienced staff, learn how research is applied in practice, and build professional skills in a multicultural environment.
For students considering a career in livestock agriculture, research, or international development, this placement provides a structured first step. The mentorship model, where each intern is supervised by a staff member, means interns receive guidance rather than being left to work without support.
Requirements and Eligibility
Applicants must meet the following requirements at the time of application:
Be enrolled for an undergraduate university degree program, with at least one full semester to completion.
Through strategic partnerships, ILRI also provides internship opportunities to students enrolled for diploma and certificate programs, as well as senior high school students.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
Proficiency in English.
These requirements are listed exactly as provided. Applicants should confirm their eligibility against each point before preparing an application for the ILRI internship in Nairobi.
Terms of Appointment
ILRI offers a stipend to cover living expenses as well as insurance. The internship is therefore a paid placement, listed as a Paid Internship under CapDev in Nairobi, Kenya.
How to Apply
Interested candidates who meet the criteria above are encouraged to submit their application letter, detailed CV, motivation letter, and university internship request letters.
Applications should be addressed to the Head of Capacity Development.
To apply and to find out more about ILRI, visit the ILRI website: http://www.ilri.org/
Apply: Apply
What Happens After You Apply
ILRI thanks all applicants for the interest in taking their internship at ILRI. Due to the large volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, on a continuous basis, as opportunities arise within ILRI programs.
This means applicants should not expect an immediate response, and shortlisting happens as opportunities arise rather than at a single fixed date. Candidates are encouraged to apply and wait to be contacted if shortlisted.
Important Notice on Recruitment Fees
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.
Applicants should be aware of this notice, as it is a standard part of ILRI’s recruitment information for the ILRI internship in Nairobi.
Summary of Key Details
Position: ILRI Internship
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Type: Paid Internship
Unit: CapDev (Capacity Development)
Duration: Usually 3 months or less, can be up to 6 months
Work schedule: Five days per week
Supervision: Assigned staff member in the relevant department or program
Stipend and insurance: Provided
Application documents: Application letter, detailed CV, motivation letter, and university internship request letters
Addressed to: Head of Capacity Development
Before applying for the ILRI internship Nairobi, check that you meet the enrolment requirement, including having at least one full semester to completion if you are an undergraduate student. Prepare all four documents requested: the application letter, detailed CV, motivation letter, and university internship request letters. Address your application to the Head of Capacity Development.
Keep in mind that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, on a continuous basis, as opportunities arise within ILRI programs. Visit http://www.ilri.org/ to learn more about ILRI and to submit your application through the Apply link.
To apply for this job please visit www.ilri.org.




