Research Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) is a renowned research organization dedicated to providing evidence-based solutions to reduce poverty and end hunger and malnutrition. Established in 1975, IFPRI operates in over 40 countries and employs a diverse team of more than 300 staff members, including researchers, policy analysts, and support staff. The organization focuses on agricultural research and policy analysis, aiming to improve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and nutrition through innovative research and partnerships with various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and the private sector.

Job Overview:
The Research Assistant position within the Natural Resources and Resilience Unit at IFPRI is designed for individuals who are passionate about leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance agricultural practices and decision-making processes in low-resource settings. The successful candidate will engage in interdisciplinary research that utilizes AI models to improve information access and local adaptation strategies for smallholder farmers, particularly in African countries. This role involves working closely with senior researchers to develop, apply, and evaluate AI technologies, specifically focusing on Natural Language Processing (NLP), Automated Speech Recognition (ASR), and Large Language Models (LLMs). The Research Assistant will contribute to projects aimed at designing and piloting AI systems that provide advisory services to farmers, ensuring these systems are inclusive, transparent, and contextually relevant.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Research Assistant will have a variety of essential duties, including but not limited to: assisting in the design and implementation of AI-powered Automated Speech Recognition (ASR) solutions; preparing, analyzing, and managing large multimodal datasets for AI model fine-tuning; communicating research findings through publications, seminars, and workshops; and supporting partnerships with academic and private sector organizations to promote responsible AI innovation. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and collaboration with diverse teams to achieve research objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree (BSc) in a relevant field such as Agricultural Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, Geography, or Environmental Science. Additionally, they should have demonstrated experience in applying ASR models in low-resource languages, particularly in African contexts, and proficiency in Python programming and SQL for data management. The ability to work effectively in multicultural and interdisciplinary environments is crucial, along with excellent written and spoken English communication skills.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is required, with a preference for candidates who have further specialization or certifications in AI, ASR, or NLP. This educational background will provide the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of AI technologies and their applications in agricultural advisory services.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have practical experience in applying ASR models in low-resource languages, particularly in African countries. Experience working with CGIAR and its partner organizations on digital innovation and advisory services in Africa is highly desirable. Familiarity with developing or deploying multimodal AI systems and ethical AI governance frameworks will also be beneficial.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as excellent communication skills are essential for this role. Knowledge of low-resource languages such as Swahili, Luganda, or Chichewa is preferred, as it will enhance the candidate's ability to work effectively in the targeted research areas.

Additional Notes:
This position is a one-year, exempt, renewable role based in Washington, DC. The expected salary range for this position is between $48,600 and $60,800, depending on experience and other job-related factors. IFPRI offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance coverage, which is available to active, non-temporary, full-time and part-time US-based employees who work at least 25 hours per week. The organization is committed to equal employment opportunities and values diversity in its workforce.