We are seeking a highly motivated individual to oversee daily operations, ensuring all tasks are completed efficiently and in compliance with company standards. Key responsibilities include managing workflow processes, coordinating team efforts, and maintaining accurate records of activities and outcomes. The role demands strong organizational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively in a fast-paced environment. Additionally, the position requires effective communication with stakeholders, problem-solving capabilities, and adherence to established policies and procedures to drive productivity and operational excellence.
The Researcher will spearhead and actively participate in research initiatives of the highest caliber, exploring the convergence of education, technology, and digital advancements to produce actionable insights that shape policy and practice within African education systems. Key responsibilities for this role include:
Strengthen AP HRC’s understanding of how technology, including AI and other educational tools, is utilized and its effects on African basic education, with a focus on responsible implementation and scalable adoption.
Spearhead or collaboratively lead research initiatives, focusing on meticulous assessments of digital and other technological applications within African elementary education systems.
Drive strategic initiatives within the Human Development Theme and the broader Center by advancing project management, policy engagement, and long-term planning efforts, while translating research insights into practical, actionable recommendations for policymakers, educators, and education technology developers.
Secure funding by crafting and submitting compelling proposals while fostering enduring collaborations with both local and international stakeholders to ensure sustained project support.
Assess the effectiveness, fairness, and ethical considerations of digital technology, with a focus on its use in low-resource settings. This involves supporting AP HRC’s initiatives in education, technology, and artificial intelligence.
Conduct a thorough examination of the adoption rates, utilization patterns, and outcomes associated with digital learning platforms, mobile learning applications, and other technological tools designed to enhance foundational literacy and numeracy skills, teacher performance, and educational equity.
Conduct systematic reviews of research findings to design comprehensive frameworks that facilitate the incorporation of digital technology within educational systems, while collaborating with ministries of education, Edtech innovation centers, civil society organizations, and global partners to advocate for and implement policies and practices grounded in empirical evidence.
Oversee and execute a range of critical tasks to ensure operational excellence, including developing and implementing strategic plans, managing cross-functional teams, and driving performance metrics to meet organizational objectives. Analyze market trends and competitive landscapes to identify opportunities for growth, while maintaining robust stakeholder relationships to align with business goals. Monitor workflows, allocate resources efficiently, and optimize processes to enhance productivity and profitability. Ensure compliance with industry regulations, company policies, and quality standards through rigorous audits and continuous improvement initiatives.
The scope of responsibilities for this position will vary according to the specific appointment level, which may include Postdoctoral, Associate Research Scientist, Research Scientist, or Senior Research Scientist.
Provide strategic direction to scientific research teams or projects focused on education and technology, with an emphasis on AI applications in education. Ensure high standards of data quality and integrity while conducting thorough analysis, adhering to rigorous, ethical research methodologies.
Spearhead and actively participate in crafting research proposals and securing funding for initiatives under the Human Development Theme.
Mentor emerging researchers, such as research officers and interns, and lead training sessions within the Center’s programs as required.
Acquire and oversee the essential human, financial, and material resources required for the designated project and/or program.
Assist in the formulation and execution of policy engagement initiatives and contribute to the strategic planning processes of the Unit/Theme.
At an executive level, this role involves representing the Center in prominent national, regional, and global forums, such as technical working groups and expert committees.
Craft and assist in the development of key institutional publications, such as policy briefs, research summaries, fact sheets, research reports, and articles for peer-reviewed journals.
Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or equivalent professional experience is required for this position. Candidates must possess at least three years of relevant work experience in a similar role, demonstrating proficiency in key responsibilities. Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential. Familiarity with industry-specific software and tools is preferred. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment is necessary. Exceptional organizational and time management abilities are also required.
A doctoral degree in a relevant field—such as education and technology, machine learning in education, educational data science, or curriculum and instruction with a technology focus—is required.
Demonstrated expertise in research environments or comparable organizations, with a focus on producing rigorous studies in education, digital technology, and/or artificial intelligence. Strong leadership experience in directing or overseeing research initiatives or projects is required.
Proven expertise in quantitative and/or qualitative research methodologies, with a preference for candidates skilled in mixed-methods approaches. Candidates must possess a strong command of one or more data analysis tools, including but not limited to STATE, SPSS, R, Python, Vivo, or ATLAS.ti.
Proven proficiency in scientific writing is evidenced by a substantial portfolio of peer-reviewed publications and a history of securing competitive grant funding.
Fluency in English is essential, and proficiency in French is advantageous.
Proven expertise in crafting compelling proposals and securing research grants is essential.
Desirable
Professional educators with a proven track record in evaluating the outcomes of educational initiatives, especially those incorporating technological advancements, are encouraged to apply.
Proficient in African education systems, with expertise in foundational literacy and numeracy assessment instruments such as ERA (Early Grade Reading Assessment) and EMMA (Early Grade Mathematics Assessment).
Proficiency in qualitative and mixed-method research methodologies is required for assessing the effectiveness of educational technology innovations.
Candidates who demonstrate exceptional qualifications may be considered for appointment at varying levels, including Postdoctoral (0–2 years post-PhD), Associate Research Scientist (3–5 years post-PhD), Research Scientist (6–11 years post-PhD), or Senior Research Scientist (12+ years post-PhD), contingent upon their experience and professional achievements. These roles are designated under the Internationally Recruited Positions (IRP) framework.
Candidates interested in this opportunity are requested to submit the following documents, prepared in English:
Qualifications
PhD/Fellowship
Experience Required
2 - 12 years
