Performs a diverse array of tasks encompassing operational, administrative, and technical functions, ensuring seamless workflow integration and adherence to established protocols. Manages documentation, coordinates schedules, and facilitates communication between departments to maintain operational continuity. Assists in project planning, tracks progress, and resolves discrepancies to meet deadlines efficiently. Operates specialized software, maintains accurate records, and upholds compliance with industry regulations and company policies. Collaborates with cross-functional teams to support strategic initiatives and enhance overall productivity.
The Researcher will spearhead and actively engage in high-caliber research initiatives that explore the convergence of education, technology, and digital advancements, aiming to produce actionable insights for shaping policy and enhancing practice within African education systems. Key responsibilities associated with this role include:
Strengthen AP HRC’s expertise regarding the application and effects of technology in education, with a particular emphasis on the responsible integration and scalability of AI and other educational technologies within African basic education systems.
Spearhead or collaboratively direct research initiatives, with a primary focus on conducting thorough assessments of digital technologies and other innovative tools within the context of African primary and secondary education.
You will play a key role in advancing project management, shaping policy engagement, and contributing to strategic planning efforts within the Human Development Theme and across the Center. This involves ensuring that research outcomes are effectively translated into practical, actionable recommendations tailored for policymakers, educators, and developers of education technology.
Develop and submit compelling proposals to secure necessary funding while cultivating and sustaining robust collaborations with local and international stakeholders.
Assess the effectiveness, fairness, and ethical considerations of digital technology, with a particular focus on low-resource settings. This role involves supporting AP HRC’s initiatives in education and technology, as well as artificial intelligence.
Examine how digital learning platforms, mobile learning applications, and other technologies enhance foundational literacy and numeracy, teacher performance, and equity in education, while assessing their adoption, utilization, and overall impact.
Leverage research insights to design comprehensive frameworks that facilitate the integration of digital technology within educational systems, while fostering collaboration with ministries of education, Edtech hubs, civil society organizations, and international stakeholders to advance evidence-based policy development and implementation.
Oversee and execute a range of critical duties to ensure operational excellence and team productivity. Serve as the primary point of contact for project-related inquiries, providing clear guidance and resolving issues promptly. Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to align objectives, streamline processes, and achieve shared goals. Monitor progress through established metrics, identify areas for improvement, and implement corrective actions as needed. Maintain accurate documentation, track performance metrics, and prepare regular reports for stakeholders to support data-driven decision-making. Foster a culture of accountability, professionalism, and continuous growth within the team.
The Researcher’s duties will be dependent on the level of appointment (Postdoctoral, Associate Research Scientist, Research Scientist, or Senior Research Scientist).
Provide leadership to scientific research teams or projects in the area of education and technology, including AI in education. Oversee data quality and analysis, ensuring robust, ethical, and rigorous research practices.
Direct and actively spearhead the creation and enhancement of research proposals and fundraising strategies specifically tailored to initiatives under the Human Development Theme.
Provide guidance and support to junior researchers, including research officers and interns, and lead instructional sessions within the Center’s training programs as required.
Acquire, allocate, and oversee the essential human capital, financial assets, and material supplies to effectively execute the designated project and/or program.
Facilitate policy engagement initiatives and support the strategic planning processes of the Unit/Theme.
Serve as an authoritative representative of the Center at prestigious national, regional, and international forums, such as technical working groups and expert committees.
Craft institutional publications such as policy briefs, research briefs, fact sheets, research reports, and peer-reviewed journal articles, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and professional presentation.
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field; minimum of five years of professional experience in software development; proficiency in programming languages such as Java, Python, or C++; experience with cloud platforms like AWS or Azure; strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
A PhD in a pertinent field—such as education and technology, machine learning in education, educational data science, curriculum and instruction with a technological emphasis, or an allied discipline—is required.
Demonstrated expertise in research environments, particularly within educational, technological, or artificial intelligence domains, with a focus on producing rigorous and impactful studies. Prior leadership or management of research initiatives, programs, or projects is a critical requirement.
Proven expertise in quantitative and/or qualitative research methodologies, with mixed methods experience considered a valuable asset. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in key data analysis tools, including STATE, SPSS, R, Python, Vivo, or ATLAS.ti.
Proven expertise in scientific writing is evidenced by a robust portfolio of peer-reviewed publications and a history of securing grant funding.
Fluency in English is a requirement, while proficiency in French would be considered an additional asset.
Proven expertise in crafting compelling proposal documents, along with a track record of securing research funding through successful grant applications.
Desirable
Proven track record in executing impact evaluations of educational initiatives, with a particular emphasis on technology-driven interventions.
Proficient in African education systems, with a strong understanding of foundational literacy and numeracy assessment tools such as ERA and EMMA.
Proficiency in qualitative and mixed-method research methodologies is essential for assessing Edtech innovations.
Successful candidates will be placed at one of four levels—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)—based on their qualifications and professional background. These roles fall under the category of Internationally Recruited Positions (IRP).
Prospective applicants are encouraged to provide the following materials in English:
Qualifications
PhD/Fellowship
Experience Required
2 - 12 years
