Principal Officer - Scientific Research and Development at East African Community (EAC)

REF: EAC/HR/2022-23/15

Duties and responsibilities:

1. Lead the formulation of Regional Scientific Research Policies including mechanisms to safeguard the region from hazards that might result from research activities and the application of Science and Technology;
2. Formulate mechanisms for promoting the further development of regional Scientific Research Centres of Excellence;
3. Coordinate the design and implementation of common ethical guidelines for research and its application in the community;
4. Lead and coordinate regional collaborative scientific research for the benefit of the development agenda of the Community including working with relevant partners to guide regional research objectives to target development challenges in the community;
5. Identify opportunities for strategic partnerships with academia, industry, government and civil society & drive development of those relationships;
6. Formulate and implement mechanisms to support the dissemination, exchange and utilization of scientific research findings, scientific information and products from scientific research in the Community;
7. Assist with fundraising efforts for new regional initiatives in scientific research
8. Collaborate with relevant actors to synthesize available scientific research into actionable insights and development-focused innovation concepts, and leverage the potential of applicable research;
9. Liaise with relevant partners to promote and support skills development for Science, Mathematics, Engineering and Technology, with focus on the regional needs;
10. Monitor and evaluate the implementation of regional (EAC) Science and Technology efforts and policies including the further development of regional indicators;
11. Participate in preparation of work plans and budget for the Commission;
12. Perform other related duties assigned by the Deputy Executive Secretary, Programme Development.

Qualifications and experience:

• PhD in a relevant field of Science, with additional qualifications in Research and Development;
• 10+ years' of experience working in a Scientific Research Organization with 5 years at senior level;
• Proven track record of high quality academic and/or policy publications
• Experience in data/information management and utilization of scientific research findings.
• Knowledge of technical concepts related to program planning and management, research and survey methodology;
• Experience in developing project proposals.

Skills and competencies:

• Ability to manage multiple projects and tasks with the ability to meet stated deadlines;
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to develop a wide range of high-level contacts within academia, industry, government and civil society;
• Must possess analytical and problem solving skills,
• Self-starter with excellent organizational skills and a proven ability to work
• independently with little guidance and oversight in a fast-paced environment ;
• Excellent writing and oral communication skills in English, able to produce clear,
• concise reports, and to present complex concepts to non-expert audiences;
• Reliable, positive and effective team player with a track record working in multidisciplinary teams and delivering results through collaboration;
• Advanced skills in computer software applications.