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NISIR

Career Opportunities

Career Opportunities

Join our team of dedicated researchers, scientists, and professionals advancing scientific innovation in Zambia.

Why Join NISIR?

Be part of Zambia's premier research institution and contribute to groundbreaking scientific discoveries.

Cutting-Edge Research

Work with state-of-the-art laboratories and equipment

Professional Development

PhD opportunities, trainings, and international collaborations

Excellent Benefits

Competitive salaries, housing allowance, medical insurance

International Network

Collaborate with global research institutions

Current Openings

Senior Research Scientist - Food Microbiology

Food Science Full-time Lusaka Deadline: Apr 30, 2026
New

Lead research on food safety, pathogen detection, and development of rapid microbiological methods for food quality assessment. Supervise junior researchers and collaborate with industry partners.

PhD in Food Microbiology
5+ years experience
English (fluent)

Research Associate - Animal Genetics

Animal Science Full-time Lusaka Deadline: May 15, 2026

Support research on livestock genetics, molecular breeding, and characterization of indigenous cattle breeds. Assist in laboratory analysis and field data collection.

MSc in Animal Science/Genetics
2+ years experience
Molecular biology skills

Postdoctoral Fellow - Plant Biotechnology

Plant Science Fixed-term (2 years) Lusaka Deadline: Jun 1, 2026

Conduct research on genetic transformation of local crop varieties for drought tolerance and pest resistance. Publish findings and mentor graduate students.

PhD in Plant Biotechnology
Tissue culture experience
Crop breeding

Materials Engineer - Composites

Material Engineering Full-time Lusaka Deadline: Apr 20, 2026
Urgent

Develop and characterize natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites for industrial applications. Conduct mechanical testing and process optimization.

MSc/PhD in Materials Eng
3+ years experience
Composite fabrication

Radiation Safety Officer

Nuclear Science Full-time Lusaka Deadline: May 30, 2026

Oversee radiation safety protocols, conduct dosimetry monitoring, ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, and train staff on safe handling of radioactive materials.

MSc in Health Physics
RSO certification
3+ years experience

Data Scientist - AI for Research

Digital Transformation Full-time Lusaka Deadline: Jun 15, 2026

Apply machine learning and AI techniques to analyze research data across departments. Develop predictive models for agricultural and environmental applications.

MSc/PhD in CS/Data Science
Python, R, TensorFlow
2+ years ML experience

Environmental Scientist - Water Quality

Water, Energy & Environment Full-time Lusaka Deadline: May 10, 2026

Monitor and assess water quality in rivers and groundwater sources. Conduct field sampling, laboratory analysis, and report on pollution trends.

MSc in Environmental Science
Water analysis experience
Field sampling

Internship & Fellowship Programs

Graduate Research Fellowship

For MSc/PhD students to conduct research at NISIR laboratories

Applications open: May-June 2026

Industrial Attachment

3-6 month placements for undergraduate students

Rolling admissions

Postdoctoral Fellowship

2-year fellowships in all research departments

Next call: August 2026

How to Apply

Ready to join our team? Follow these steps to submit your application:

  1. 1 Review the job requirements and prepare your documents
  2. 2 Click "Apply Now" on your chosen position
  3. 3 Fill in the application form and upload your CV
  4. 4 Submit and wait for our recruitment team to contact you

Required Documents

  • Updated CV/Resume
  • Cover letter
  • Academic certificates
  • Professional certifications
  • Contact details of 3 referees

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the recruitment process?

Typically 4-6 weeks from application deadline to final decision. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Can I apply for multiple positions?

Yes, you may apply for multiple positions. Please submit separate applications for each role you're interested in.

Do you offer relocation assistance?

Yes, for senior and international positions, we provide relocation support and housing allowance.

Are there opportunities for career growth?

Absolutely. We support professional development through training, conferences, and promotion pathways.