Data Scientist

About the role

Girl Effect is seeking a Data Scientist to lead the design and implementation of generative AI and large‑language‑model solutions for its chatbot platforms serving adolescent girls in Africa and Asia. You will work at the intersection of AI, behavioral science and user safety to create personalised, responsible conversational experiences.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and maintain Python‑based services that integrate GPT (OpenAI), Gemini (Google) and Claude (Anthropic) into the chatbot stack.
• Design and optimise custom Retrieval‑Augmented Generation (RAG) pipelines and real‑time performance monitoring on Azure.
• Implement strict guardrails and evaluation metrics to ensure safe, accurate interactions for vulnerable youth.
• Expand AI capabilities to mixed‑code languages across Kenya, South Africa and India.
• Collaborate with data scientists, mental‑health experts and safeguarding teams to translate behavioural goals into technical specifications.

Required profile

• Post‑graduate degree in Data Science, Computer Science or a related field.
• Proven hands‑on experience building GenAI/LLM applications using modern AI frameworks.
• Deep understanding of the full software development lifecycle and architectural decision‑making.
• Strong commitment to responsible AI and user safety in vulnerable populations.
• Excellent communication skills to bridge technical and non‑technical stakeholders.

Required skills

• Python programming
• Experience with GPT (OpenAI), Gemini (Google) and Claude (Anthropic) models
• Azure cloud services
• Retrieval‑Augmented Generation (RAG) pipelines
• Real‑time performance metrics and monitoring
• Implementation of AI guardrails and safety evaluation