Researcher at African Centre for Technology Studies

We are seeking highly qualified candidates for a Research Fellow position at the African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS), Nairobi, Kenya under the Innovation and Renewable Electrification in Kenya (IREK) project.

Overall responsibility:

To conduct high quality research activities in areas consistent with ACTS’ strategic direction. This includes grant writing and publications work.

Responsibilities:

This post is specifically required to work on the IREK project. This project investigates the relationship between technologies and capability building in the area of renewable electrification. The Research Fellow will provide research support to the ACTS’ Principal Investigator (PI) on this project notably in the area of Work Package 4 that conducts in-depth case studies of renewable electrification projects and the degree to which skills and capabilities are built within the project life cycle. Support will also be given in Work Package 7 which focuses on developing and communicating policy advice from the project to relevant stakeholders.

• Research - Conduct research as per agreed research projects assigned to. This could include fieldwork, data analysis amongst other things. This will also include some grant writing requirements. Expected deliverable - 2 journal publications. Time 60%
• Communications and outreach - Writing project outputs and associated materials as required for projects. Assist (and lead where necessary) in the organization, implementation and write up of project events (workshops, conferences etc.). Expected deliverable - 2 policy briefs. Time 20%
• Capacity building - Participate in ACTS internal and external training and capacity building activities. This might include: student (MSc, PhD) supervision; line managing interns or other staff. Time 10%
• Administration and management - Support ACTS everyday activities. This may include taking minutes at office meetings, organizing office events for example. Time 10%

Please note - * This is a general guide. Exact percentages will be agreed during work planning exercises each year.

Minimum qualifications, experience and skills

• Minimum 3 years' relevant (i.e. research) experience post Master's degree
• Masters Degree in Science and Technology Studies, Innovation Studies or a related social science discipline. PhD is preferred.
• Strong research skills including statistical analysis where necessary and analysis software (quantitative and qualitative)
• Good writing skills
• Strong administrative skills
• Evidence of networking and outreach experience
• Publication experience would be an advantage

Person abilities and qualities

• Evidence of working in teams
• The ability to work in diverse environments
• The capacity to multitask
• Ability to work under pressure with minimal supervision
• A willingness to go above and beyond

Reporting to: Senior Research Fellow

Contract duration: 15 months with possibility of extension subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funding

Remuneration: Based on academic qualifications and experience