ARBA MINCH UNIVERSITY (AMU)

She-F.E.R.A. (Moringa) Project - AID 013244/05/2

PhD STUDENT (RESEARCH STIPEND)

Arba Minch University (AMU), as implementing research partner of the She-F.E.R.A. (Moringa) “Moringa:

Economic Chains for Resilience Food in Ethiopia” funded by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) and led by CESVI Fondazione ETS in consortium with Ayuda en Acción Ethiopia (AeA) and PAD, invites applications from qualified and motivated candidates for one PhD Student (Research Stipend) position based in Arba Minch.

1.  Project Background

The She-F.E.R.A. (Moringa) Project is a 36-month initiative (20, June 2025 –   19 June 2028) implemented in the Karat Zuria district of Konso Zone and the Derashe district of Gardula Zone, South Ethiopia Regional State. The project integrates moringa cultivation with sorghum and beans to strengthen resilient food systems and promote sustainable economic growth in the moringa agroforestry value chain, benefiting approximately 9,287 individuals (1,500 households). AMU is responsible for applied research on agroforestry and indigenous cultivation techniques, technical assistance to processing units, and related capacity-building activities.

2.   Position Overview

3.   Required Qualifications

➢ PhD candidate (registered/enrolled) in Food Science, Post-Harvest Technology, Agronomy, Rural Development, Biotechnology, Plant science, Agroforestry, or a related field.

➢ Demonstrated experience conducting independent research and managing laboratory work.

➢ Experience or demonstrated capacity in supervising postgraduate (MSc) students.

➢ Skilled in field experimentation, data analysis, and scientific/technical reporting.

➢ Prior experience collaborating with universities, research institutes, or development partners is an advantage.

➢ Strong written and spoken English.

4.   Key Responsibilities

Under the supervision of the AMU Investigator, the selected PhD Student will:

➢ Lead defined sub-projects within the broader She-F.E.R.A. research framework.

➢ Design and implement advanced experiments and develop new research methodologies.

➢ Supervise and mentor junior/MSc students engaged on the project.

➢ Contribute significantly to scientific publications, reports, and presentations.

➢ Participate in stakeholder engagement, training, and dissemination of research findings

➢ Submit a brief monthly progress note on research/field activities, countersigned by the Investigator.

5.   Eligibility and Continuation Conditions

Selection is undertaken by AMU in consultation with the Investigator and Project Coordinator, based on the qualification profile above, transparent shortlisting, and an interview/assessment process. Continuation of the monthly stipend is conditional on:

➢ Valid, active PhD registration/enrolment status throughout the engagement;

➢ Evidence of Coursework Completion – Arba Minch University (AMU)

➢ Compliance with AMU academic regulations and CESVI/AICS codes of conduct, including the PSEA Policy, the Policy on Prevention of Fraud and Corruption, the Child Safeguarding Policy, and the Ethical Code;

➢ Continued availability of approved budget under the relevant line item of the project budget.

6.   How to Apply

Interested and qualified candidates should submit the following documents:

1.      A cover/motivation letter (maximum 1 page) explaining interest in and suitability for the position;

2.      An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV);

3.      Copies of academic credentials (degree certificates and transcripts) 

4.      Evidence of current PhD registration/enrolment

5.      A brief research statement or outline (maximum 2 pages) relevant to enset/moringa-based food systems, agroforestry, or post-harvest research, where applicable;

Application Submission

Applicants are required to submit their application as a single PDF file, where possible, by email to:

To: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Cc: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Email Subject: Application - PhD Student Stipend, She-F.E.R.A. Project

Deadline: September 10, 2026, at 6:00 PM

Applications must be received by the above deadline. Late applications will not be considered.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview/assessment. AMU and CESVI are equal opportunity partners; qualified women candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.