VACANCIES FOR PROFESSIONAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE POSITIONS ON UNIVERSITY OF GHANA NUTRITION AND SUSTAINABLE AGRIFOOD SYSYTEMS COLLABORATIVE (NKABOM)
The University of Ghana (UG) is a leading institution committed to academic excellence, research innovation, and the holistic development of students and staff. The UG Nutrition and Sustainable Agri-Food Systems Collaborative (Nkabom) is seeking highly motivated, detail-oriented, and professional individuals to join our team and contribute to the smooth and efficient operation of the project. The underlisted professional and administrative positions are advertised for all qualified persons to apply:
Field Supervisor
Food System Specialist
Administrator
Administrative Assistant
Post-Doctoral Fellowship/Scholar
The job title, job summary, job descriptions and requisite qualifications and skills for the vacant positions are detailed as follows:
- FIELD SUPERVISOR
Job Summary:
The University of Ghana seeks a proactive and resourceful Field Officer to manage the on-ground activities of the UG Nutrition and Sustainable Agri-Food Systems Collaborative (Nkabom). The Field Officer will play a critical role in coordinating and monitoring field-level initiatives, engaging stakeholders, and ensuring that project objectives are met effectively. This role requires regular interaction with students, communities, and institutions, with a focus on promoting inclusive education and sustainable development.
Job Description:
- Field Coordination and Implementation. To coordinate and oversee all field-level activities of the project, including outreach, data collection, and training sessions. Serve as the primary point of contact for beneficiaries, ensuring timely support and engagement. Ensure that all activities are aligned with the project’s goals and timelines.
- Stakeholder Engagement: To establish and maintain relationships with project beneficiaries, community leaders, and local organizations to foster collaboration. Facilitate regular meetings, focus groups, and feedback sessions with stakeholders to ensure their active participation and input.
- Monitoring and Evaluation: To collect, document, and analyze data related to field activities, including attendance, participation rates, and program impact. Provide detailed reports on field activities and progress to the project manager and other relevant stakeholders. Identify challenges or gaps in implementation and propose actionable solutions.
- Training and Capacity Building: To organize and deliver training sessions, workshops, and information sessions for project beneficiaries. Support beneficiaries in accessing available project resources and opportunities.
- Awareness and Outreach: To implement awareness campaigns to promote the project’s initiatives among students and vulnerable groups, including women, migrants, and persons with disabilities. Develop and distribute educational materials to raise awareness about the project’s objectives and benefits.
- Logistics and Resource Management: To coordinate logistics for field activities, including transportation, materials distribution, and event organization. Ensure the effective use and management of project resources in the field.
- Compliance and Reporting: Ensure compliance with University policies, donor requirements, and local regulations during all field activities. Prepare and submit regular reports on field activities, challenges, and recommendations.
Qualifications and requirements:
- At least a Master’s degree in Project Management, Social Sciences,Gender studies, Development Studies, Education, Public Health, Agriculture, Food and Nutrition or a related field.
- At least 5 years of experience in field-based project coordination, community engagement, monitoring and evaluation or implementation research in Food systems.
- Experience working with vulnerable populations, including women, migrants, and individuals with disabilities, or with farming or food system actors is highly desirable.
- Strong understanding of project monitoring and evaluation techniques.
- Proficiency in data collection and analysis tools, as well as Microsoft Office Suite and Project Management Softwares.
- Ability to plan and execute training programs and community engagement activities.
- Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships and engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare comprehensive reports.
- Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
- Ability to anticipate and resolve challenges in the field proactively.
- Commitment to promoting inclusivity, sustainability, and the project’s overall mission.
- Willingness to travel frequently to project sites and work flexible hours when necessary.
FOOD SYSTEMS SPECIALIST
Job Summary:
The University of Ghana seeks a knowledgeable and innovative Food System Specialist to oversee and implement food system-related components of the UG Nutrition and Sustainable Agri-Food Systems Collaborative (Nkabom). The role involves designing and executing strategies to improve sustainable food systems, enhance food security, and promote entrepreneurial opportunities in agriculture. The Specialist will work closely with stakeholders, including students, researchers, farmers, and policymakers, to ensure the project's impact aligns with its broader objectives of inclusive development and environmental sustainability. This role offers a unique opportunity to drive innovation and impact in food systems, contributing to the UG Nutrition and Sustainable Agri-Food Systems Collaborative's broader mission of empowering vulnerable groups and fostering sustainable development.
Job Description:
Strategic Planning and Implementation: Develop and implement strategies to improve food systems within the scope of the project. Identify opportunities to integrate sustainable agricultural practices, food system innovations into the project’s activities and amplify healthy diet imapct.
Policy and Advocacy: Support the development and implementation of project policies and programs that promote sustainable food systems and improve nutrition.
Research and Development: Conduct research to identify gaps, challenges, and opportunities in local and regional food systems. Develop solutions to address issues such as food security, supply chain inefficiencies, and post-harvest losses. Collaborate with academic and research institutions to generate data and insights for decision-making.
Capacity Building and Training: Design and deliver training programs for students, farmers, and other stakeholders on sustainable agriculture, food systems, and related topics. Support students and entrepreneurs in developing innovative agri-business ideas and models.
Stakeholder Engagement and Partnerships: Build and maintain relationships with farmers, policymakers, agribusinesses, and NGOs to enhance food systems. Liaise with the project team to integrate food system goals with other project components.
Monitoring and Evaluation: Develop metrics to measure the impact of food system initiatives under the project. Monitor progress and provide regular reports on food system-related activities, challenges, and outcomes.
Advocacy and Awareness Creation: Advocate for policies and practices that promote sustainable food systems. Organize seminars, workshops, and awareness campaigns to engage stakeholders and highlight project achievements.
Resource Mobilization and Management: Identify funding opportunities and support the preparation of grant proposals related to food systems. Ensure efficient utilization of resources allocated to food system activities.
Qualifications and requirements:
PhD or Master’s degree in Food Systems, Agriculture, Agribusiness, Food Science, Nutrition, Environmental Science, public health, or a related field.
At least 5 years (PhD) or 7 years (Master’s degree) of experience in food systems, agriculture, or related areas.
Proven experience in research, project management, and stakeholder engagement.
Strong understanding of food security, value chains, and sustainable agriculture practices.
Proficiency in data analysis tools and methods for monitoring food systems and agricultural programs.
Knowledge of policy frameworks and theories of change relating to food systems.
Ability to analyze complex food system challenges and develop innovative, practical solutions.
Strong project evaluation and impact assessment skills.
Ability to communicate complex concepts effectively to diverse audiences.
Strong networking and relationship-building skills with experience in stakeholder management.
Proven ability to manage multiple tasks, coordinate cross-functional teams, and meet deadlines.
Experience in facilitating workshops and training sessions.
Commitment to promoting sustainability and inclusivity in food systems.
Willingness to travel to project sites and engage with local communities.
ADMINISTRATOR
Job Summary:
The University of Ghana seeks a highly skilled and experienced Project Administrator to oversee and manage high-level administrative duties for the UG Nutrition and Sustainable Agri-Food Systems Collaborative (Nkabom). This role involves coordinating project activities, ensuring compliance with institutional policies, maintaining efficient operations, and serving as a key liaison between internal and external stakeholders. The Administrator will provide leadership in planning, organizing, and executing all administrative aspects of the project to achieve its objectives effectively and efficiently.
Job Description:
Project Administration and Coordination: manage the day-to-day administrative operations of Nkabom. Coordinate and monitor project schedules, deliverables, and timelines. Ensure adherence to project goals, budgets, and timelines in collaboration with other team members.
Stakeholder Engagement: act as a primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders. Facilitate communication and collaboration between project teams, faculty, students, and external partners. Prepare and distribute reports, presentations, and updates for stakeholders.
Documentation and Reporting: maintain accurate records of project activities, expenditures, and outcomes. Prepare regular progress reports for the project team, University leadership, and funding partners. Ensure compliance with the University and Mastercard Foundation reporting requirements.
Budgeting and Financial Oversight: work closely with the Finance Officer to track project expenses and ensure budget alignment. Assist in preparing budgets and financial reports for the project. Ensure the efficient use of resources and recommend cost-effective measures.
Logistical and Operational Support: plan and coordinate project-related meetings, workshops, and events. Oversee procurement processes, including purchasing supplies, equipment, and services for the project. Supervise support staff and ensure smooth administrative operations.
Monitoring and Evaluation Support: collaborate with team members to develop and implement monitoring and evaluation frameworks. Assist in tracking the progress and impact of project activities.
Compliance and Policy Adherence: ensure that all project activities comply with University policies and Mastercard Foundation requirements. Address and resolve any administrative challenges or conflicts.
Qualifications and requirements:
A Master’s degree in Business Administration, Human Resource Management, Public Administration, Project Management, or a related field.
A minimum of 4 years of experience in administrative or project management roles, preferably in a higher education, NGO or development context.
Proven experience managing complex projects with multiple stakeholders.
Strong skills in managing high-level administrative processes, including record-keeping, reporting, and knowledge of University of Ghana Basic Laws, statutes, conditions of service for staff, labour law, rules and regulations governing the University.
Proficiency in planning, organizing, and executing project activities to meet deadlines and objectives.
Familiarity with budgeting, expense tracking, and financial reporting.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills for preparing reports, presentations, and engaging with diverse stakeholders.
Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and project management tools.
Ability to address challenges proactively and propose effective solutions.
Strong interpersonal and leadership skills to manage support staff and guide team activities effectively.
High level of organizational and multitasking ability.
Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high standards of administrative excellence.
Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively in a team environment.
Passion for contributing to education, inclusivity, and development initiatives.
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Job Description:
Reporting to the Team Lead for Education, Access and Success, Entrepreneurship, Network and Governance, the Administrative Assistant team will be responsible for managing daily office operations, supporting the coordination of team activities, and ensuring effective communication across the team. This role includes organizing meetings, maintaining project documentation, and preparing reports and official communications. The assistant will help plan and coordinate events such as regional conferences, policy dialogues, and outreach activities, handling logistics like travel and venue arrangements.
Qualifications and requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in an Applied Science discipline, Business Administration, Communication, Project Management, or a related field
Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in an administrative or project support role, ideally within an academic, non-profit, or development project setting
Strong organisational and multitasking skills with attention to detail
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and email management
Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage time effectively
Knowledge or interest in climate resilience, sustainability, or development is an asset
Knowledge or interest in young people and youth-led initiatives is an advantage
POST-DOCTORAL RESEARCH FELLOW
Job Summary:
The University of Ghana invites applications for a highly motivated and dynamic Postdoctoral Research Fellow to support the UG Nutrition and Sustainable Agri-Food Systems Collaborative (Nkabom). The successful candidate will work closely with pillar leads, faculty, students, and stakeholders to provide expertise, mentorship, and technical guidance across the project’s pillars, particularly in Education, Access and Success, and Entrepreneurship. The Fellow will play a key role in coordinating fieldwork, supporting innovative programming such as pitch competitions, boot camps, and job fairs, and contributing to the implementation of impactful initiatives like the Rural Mothers Programme, Innovation Hub, and Trainer of Trainees projects.
This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career researcher to engage in applied research, mentorship, and program implementation in a transformative, interdisciplinary environment. Interested candidates must have recently completed (within the past three years) a PhD or equivalent degree in the Nutrition and Food Science, Agriculture, Public Health, Education, Entrepreneurship, or Development Studies. Postdoctoral scholars would be given a monthly stipend for six months, renewable for another six months based on performance.
Job Description:
Program Support: collaborate with pillar leads to design, plan, and implement project activities.
Mentor and guide PhD and MSc students involved in the project. Provide technical expertise and support for fieldwork, laboratory research, and community-based programs.
Stakeholder Engagement: facilitate collaboration between students, faculty, and external stakeholders to ensure project goals are met. Act as a liaison between project teams and community participants to enhance engagement in programs such as the Rural Mothers Programme and innovation initiatives.
Research and Reporting: support the development of research frameworks for fieldwork and data collection. Contribute to scholarly publications, reports, and presentations related to project outcomes. Assist in monitoring and evaluating project progress and outcomes to inform continuous improvement.
Program Coordination: oversee the execution of events and activities such as: Pitch competitions, boot camps, and food innovation video projects. Job fairs, job shadowing, internships, and other career development initiatives.
Organize Innovation Hub programming and Trainer of Trainees workshops. Ensure all activities align with project objectives and timelines. Assist in the development and delivery of short courses and training modules.
Capacity Building: develop and deliver training sessions for students and faculty on applied research, entrepreneurship, and professional development. Facilitate knowledge sharing and the development of innovative ideas through workshops and seminars.
Draft at least one paper for submission to peer-reviewed journals.
Dissemination of findings at conferences and seminars.
Development of at least one research proposal for funding.
Production of policy briefs and other non-technical materials to share research findings with policy makers, practitioners and other stakeholders.
Participation in stakeholder engagements, project dissemination activities, and trainings organised for early career researchers on the project.
Qualifications and requirements
A minimum of PhD or Postdoctoral experience in a relevant field, such as Nutrition and Food Science, Agriculture, Public health, Education, Entrepreneurship, Social Sciences, or Development Studies.
Demonstrated experience in interdisciplinary research and program implementation.
Demonstrated strong research methodological capabilities, either quantitative or qualitative.
Strong written and interpersonal communication skills.
Previous experience with research in food systems or health related topics preferably including peer-reviewed publications. Proven track record of working with diverse stakeholders, including students, faculty, and community groups.
Strong knowledge of education access, success models, and entrepreneurship development frameworks.
Ability to plan, execute, and oversee complex projects involving multiple stakeholders.
Proficiency in designing research projects, data analysis, and scholarly writing.
Excellent written and oral communication skills to engage diverse audiences effectively.
Ability to guide and inspire graduate students and junior researchers.
Skilled in organizing and executing academic and entrepreneurial events.
Innovative and solution-oriented approach to addressing project challenges.
Dedication to advancing education, access, and entrepreneurship for societal impact.
Application procedure Post-Doctoral Research Fellow
Interested applicants should submit the following materials:
1. Cover letter
2. Curriculum vitae
3. Personal statement describing research interests to be pursued during fellowship.
4. Writing Sample should showcase the candidate’s current or recently completed research project. The writing sample should fit within the long-term research trajectory described in the research statement. The writing sample may consist of an excerpt from the candidate’s dissertation; an academic article manuscript; a book manuscript; or a recent publication, whether it be an academic article, edited collection, or an excerpt from a published monograph.
5. Teaching Philosophy Statement (2-3 pages, single spaced) should discuss the candidate’s teaching experience, preferred pedagogical practices, and demonstrated commitment to, past evidence of, and future plans for creating equitable opportunities for learning and mentoring, especially for underrepresented students.
6. Names and contact information of three (3) references who will provide letters of recommendation.
Application procedure for other Roles
Qualified individuals should submit all the underlisted documents and any other relevant supporting documents saved as a single PDF file saved with your full name only to mcfnkabom@ug.edu.gh.
The email subject line should indicate the position being applied for.
Required documents
Application letter
Full CV (including qualifications, skills, email address, telephone number, publications, training and conferences attended, names and contact details of three professional referees)
One page motivation letter (indicating vision and strategies to implement when appointed)
Academic degrees, Transcripts and professional certificates
Passport size picture
Any other relevant documents in support of the application
Kindly note that the closing date for all positions is 24th February, 2025 at 12 midnight (GMT).
**Applications submitted after the deadline will not be considered**