Postdoctoral Research Officer (International position) at African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS)

A young and dynamic Postdoctoral Research Officer that will support our new programmes on Artificial Intelligence for development in Africa (AI4D Africa Program) as well as the translation of innovative research programmes into policies and products (for commercialization and job creation) for overall sustainable development on the continent.

Required skills and qualifications:

• A PhD Degree in Science, Technology and Innovation Studies, Research and Development Studies, Agricultural and Bioscience Engineering, Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning, or related disciplines;
•  At least three years’ experience in data management and analytics, engineering for development, research and development fields, policy research in science, technology and innovation fields in a similar international organization;
•  Demonstrable capacity and ability to fundraise and manage knowledge networks; Have strong analytical skills- Experience in analysis of quantitative and qualitative data;
• Proven work experience working with young people, women and the vulnerable on empowerment programmes that create job opportunities and employability.
• Demonstrated experience in programme coordination and project management;
•  The capacity to speak English and French will be an added advantage.
•  Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing;
• Have strong interpersonal skills and a good team player; and
•  Ability to work with limited supervision and meet deadlines.

Personal Attributes:

•  Good research leadership characteristics
•  A Self-starter with a strong desire to learn and lead
•  Strong interpersonal skills and a good team player
•  Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
•  Willingness to travel a lot to other countries

Responsibilities

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide leadership in research, capacity building, and research translation into policies and innovative products with the ATPS stakeholders;
•  In partnership with the research team, develop proposals in relevant STI fields to fundraise for ATPS programmes and projects up to a minimum of USD1, 000,000 per annum;
•  Support the research team in the implementation of ATPS projects and specifically a new grant on Artificial Intelligence for Agriculture and Food Systems Innovation Research Network in Africa
•  Contribute to the strategic guidance of Artificial Intelligence for Development in Africa (AI4D Africa) program.
•  Assist in planning and running network workshops and other network support activities designed to collectively tackle common issues and/or facilitate cross-project collaboration
•  Participate in the training of ATPS stakeholders including researchers, policymakers, private sector actors, science journalists, extension agents, farmers, etc.
•  Provide leadership in research designs, field work, data collection and analyses, research syntheses, policy engagements, publications, as well as in monitoring, evaluation, reporting and learning.

Delegation of Responsibilities for this position:

•  50% time to be spent in research and program activities
• 50% time to be spent in fundraising activities