Duties / Responsibilities
The Researcher will lead and contribute to high-quality research projects that investigate the intersection of education, technology, and digital innovations, to generate evidence to inform policy and practice in African education systems. The specific responsibilities of this position are:
Enhance AP HRC’s expertise in the application and effects of technology in education, with particular emphasis on the ethical adoption and scaling of AI and other educational technologies within African primary and secondary education systems.
Spearhead or collaborate as a principal investigator in research initiatives, conducting comprehensive assessments of digital technologies (and other innovations) in primary education across African nations.
Facilitate project management, policy engagement, and strategic planning initiatives within the Human Development Theme and the broader Center, ensuring that research outcomes are effectively translated into practical recommendations tailored for policymakers, educators, and developers of educational technology.
Develop and submit compelling proposals to secure funding, while cultivating and sustaining robust collaborations with both local and international stakeholders.
Assess the effectiveness, fairness, and ethical considerations of digital technology, with a focus on its application in resource-constrained settings. This involves supporting AP HRC’s initiatives in education, technology, and artificial intelligence.
Examine how digital learning platforms, mobile learning applications, and other technological tools drive adoption, usage, and outcomes in foundational literacy and numeracy, teacher performance, and educational equity.
Develop comprehensive frameworks by synthesizing research evidence to guide the integration of digital technology in education, while collaborating with ministries of education, Edtech hubs, civil society organizations, and international partners to advance evidence-based policy development and implementation.
Oversee a comprehensive range of duties encompassing the planning, coordination, and execution of tasks central to the role’s objectives. Deliver consistent performance in fulfilling assigned functions while ensuring adherence to established protocols and standards. Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams to foster alignment with organizational goals and enhance operational efficiency. Maintain a proactive approach to problem-solving and decision-making to address challenges promptly and drive continuous improvement. Uphold accountability for results by monitoring progress, evaluating outcomes, and implementing corrective measures as needed to optimize performance.
The scope of responsibilities and expectations for the Researcher will vary based on the specific appointment level, which may include Postdoctoral, Associate Research Scientist, Research Scientist, or Senior Research Scientist positions.
Lead the direction of scientific research initiatives or projects focused on education and technology, with an emphasis on AI applications in learning. Supervise data quality and analytical processes to uphold rigorous, ethical, and robust research standards.
Spearhead and actively engage in crafting research proposals and securing funding for initiatives under the Human Development Theme.
Mentor early-career researchers, including research officers and interns, and lead training sessions within the Center’s programs as required.
Acquire, allocate, and oversee the essential human capital, financial assets, and material supplies essential to the designated project or program.
Engage in policy development initiatives and participate actively in the strategic planning processes of the Unit or Theme.
Represent the Center at prestigious national, regional, and international forums, such as technical working groups and expert committees.
Develop and assist in the creation of various institutional publications, such as policy briefs, research briefs, fact sheets, research reports, and peer-reviewed journal articles.
We are seeking a highly qualified candidate with a proven track record in the relevant field, possessing a minimum of five years of professional experience. The ideal applicant will hold a Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline, complemented by specialized training or certifications pertinent to the role. Demonstrated expertise in [specific skills or areas] is essential, along with strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication abilities. Prior experience in [specific industry or sector] is highly desirable, and familiarity with [relevant tools, technologies, or methodologies] is required. The successful candidate must exhibit a commitment to continuous learning and professional development to stay abreast of industry advancements.
A doctoral degree in a pertinent field is required, including—though not limited to—education and technology, machine learning in education, educational data science, curriculum and instruction with a technological emphasis, or a closely related discipline.
Experienced professionals with a background in research institutions or comparable environments, specializing in high-caliber studies focused on education, digital technology, and/or artificial intelligence, are encouraged to apply. Demonstrated success in directing or overseeing research initiatives, programs, or projects is a fundamental requirement for this role.
Strong quantitative and/or qualitative research capabilities are essential, with experience in mixed methods research highly preferred. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in key data analysis software packages, including but not limited to STATE, SPSS, R, Python, Vivo, or ATLAS.ti.
Proven expertise in scientific writing is essential, evidenced by a strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals and a history of securing grant funding.
Fluency in English is an essential requirement, while proficiency in French would be considered a valuable additional skill.
Highly proficient in crafting compelling proposals and securing research grants, with a proven track record of success in grant acquisition.
Desirable
Proficiency in executing impact assessments of educational initiatives, with a particular emphasis on technology-driven interventions, is required.
Proficient in African education frameworks, with expertise in evaluating foundational literacy and numeracy through established assessment tools such as EGRA and EGMA.
Proficient in qualitative and mixed-method research methodologies for assessing EdTech innovations.
Successful applicants will be considered for appointment at varying 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 experience and professional achievements. These roles are designated as Internationally Recruited Positions (IRP).
Professional candidates are encouraged to forward the following materials in English:
Qualifications
PhD/Fellowship
Experience Required
2 - 12 years
