Application Guide

How to Apply for CABI-Led Plantwiseplus BURUNDI (2024–2026) – END OF PROJECT EVALUATION.

at Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International

🏢 About Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International

CABI is a unique international organization that leverages science to tackle global challenges in agriculture and the environment, with a strong focus on food security, climate adaptation, and empowering rural women and youth. Working at CABI means contributing to evidence-based solutions that have real-world impact, often in partnership with governments and development agencies like the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands (EKN).

About This Role

This role involves leading the end-of-project evaluation for the PlantwisePlus Burundi project, assessing its achievements, drawing lessons learned, and providing actionable recommendations for EKN. You will analyze plant health systems and advisory services, making your work critical for informing future investments in agricultural development in Burundi.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve reviewing project documents and data, conducting virtual interviews with CABI staff and partners in Burundi, and drafting sections of the evaluation report. You would also coordinate with the EKN team to ensure alignment on evaluation scope and deliverables, and analyze findings to identify lessons learned and recommendations.

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🎯 Who Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International Is Looking For

  • Experienced in project evaluation methodologies, with a proven track record of conducting end-of-project evaluations in agriculture or international development contexts.
  • Deep understanding of plant health systems, including pest surveillance, diagnostic networks, and farmer advisory services, ideally with knowledge of integrated pest management (IPM).
  • Strong analytical skills to synthesize qualitative and quantitative data, and excellent report-writing ability to produce clear, concise, and actionable evaluation reports.
  • Familiarity with the Burundi context, including its agricultural sector, rural livelihoods, and development challenges, is a significant advantage for contextualizing findings.

📝 Tips for Applying to Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International

1

Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight specific evaluation experience in agriculture, especially any work with plant health or advisory services.

2

Mention any familiarity with CABI's Plantwise program or similar initiatives, as this demonstrates understanding of the project's framework.

3

Showcase your ability to work remotely and independently, as this is a contract role with no on-site presence required.

4

Provide examples of evaluations you have led, including the scope, methodology, and impact of your recommendations.

5

If you have experience working in or evaluating projects in East Africa, especially Burundi, emphasize this to stand out.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Highlight your expertise in evaluating agricultural development projects, with specific examples of how your work has informed donor decisions.', 'Demonstrate your understanding of plant health systems and how they contribute to food security and farmer livelihoods.', "Emphasize your ability to document lessons learned and provide actionable recommendations that align with CABI's mission and EKN's priorities.", 'Mention any cross-cultural or remote collaboration experience, as this role requires working with diverse stakeholders.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review CABI's Plantwise and PlantwisePlus programs, including their global impact and country-specific reports.
  • → Study the Burundi agricultural context, including major crops, pest issues, and the role of extension services.
  • → Familiarize yourself with EKN's evaluation criteria and typical requirements for end-of-project evaluations.
  • → Look into CABI's recent projects in East Africa to understand their approach and reporting standards.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe your approach to conducting an end-of-project evaluation, including how you would involve stakeholders and ensure objectivity.
2 How would you assess the impact of plant health interventions on smallholder farmers in Burundi?
3 What are the key challenges in evaluating agricultural advisory services, and how would you address them?
4 Can you provide an example of a lesson learned from a previous evaluation that influenced project design?
5 How do you ensure your evaluation reports are practical and useful for donors like EKN?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic application that does not reference PlantwisePlus or Burundi specifically.
  • Overlooking the need to demonstrate evaluation methodology expertise, such as use of mixed methods or theory of change.
  • Failing to show awareness of the remote nature of the contract and how you will manage communication with stakeholders.

📅 Application Timeline

⏰ Deadline: May 7, 2026

We recommend applying at least a few days early to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International!

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