Education and Technology Researcher

About the role

The African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC) is seeking a Researcher for its Human Development Theme, focusing on education and technology, especially digital solutions in education and the responsible use of AI in education. The position is based at APHRC's headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya, with occasional travel to project sites in sub-Saharan Africa. Duties depend on the appointment level (Postdoctoral, Associate Research Scientist, Research Scientist or Senior Research Scientist).

Key responsibilities

• Strengthen APHRC's knowledge base on the use and impact of technology in education, including AI and other educational technologies in African basic education.
• Lead or co-lead research studies, including rigorous evaluations of digital technologies in African basic education.
• Contribute to project management, policy engagement and strategic planning, turning research findings into recommendations for policymakers, educators and EdTech developers.
• Secure funding through proposal development and maintain partnerships with local and international stakeholders.
• Evaluate the efficacy, equity and ethical implications of digital technology, especially in low-resource environments.
• Investigate digital learning platforms and mobile apps that improve foundational literacy and numeracy, teacher effectiveness and equity.
• Synthesize evidence to build frameworks for integrating digital technology in education and engage ministries of education, EdTech hubs, civil society and international partners.
• Oversee data quality and analysis, mentor young researchers, and represent the Center at national, regional and international forums.
• Prepare policy briefs, research reports and peer-reviewed articles.

Required profile

• PhD in a relevant field such as education and technology, machine learning in education, educational data science, curriculum and instruction with a technology focus, or a related field.
• Proven experience in a research institution or similar setting, with a track record of leading or managing research programs or projects.
• Excellent scientific writing, as shown by peer-reviewed publications and successful grant proposals.
• Fluency in English is mandatory; French is an added advantage.

Required skills

• Strong quantitative and/or qualitative research skills; mixed methods is an advantage.
• Data analysis software such as STATA, SPSS, R, Python, NVivo or ATLAS.ti.
• Proposals writing and proven ability to win research grants.
• Desirable: experience with impact evaluations of education interventions, familiarity with African education systems and tools like EGRA/EGMA, and knowledge of qualitative and mixed-method approaches to evaluate EdTech.

Candidates apply online with a letter of application, a 1-2 page statement of research interests and goals, and a CV with three referee contacts. Applications are considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled; shortlisted candidates must provide a police clearance certificate later.