Data, AI & Machine Learning Specialist

About ICED

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The International Centre for Evaluation and Development (ICED) is an international non-profit organization that aims to provide, inspire, and support thought and practice leadership in evaluation in the Global South. Its vision is a sustainable, resilient development in Africa that leads to human dignity and well-being, flourishing societies and communities, and a planet that is a thriving home for all. Its mission is to enhance the generation synthesis and uptake of evidence for better policy and action through Research, Innovation, Monitoring and Evaluation. ICED cultivates leadership in the Global South in conceptualizing and practicing evaluations that translate into innovations and advances in both theory and practice in support of development.

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ICED is a “think-and-do-tank” that is rooted in practical realities and experiences across cultures and contexts. It therefore fills an important niche in the global evaluation of architecture.

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Position Overview

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ICED is seeking a highly skilled and innovative Data Scientist, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) Specialist to join our Kenya or Ghana office. The successful candidate will lead and innovate in applying advanced data science, AI, and ML approaches to generate insights, predictive models, and evidence-driven solutions. This position will play a central role in supporting ICED’s research, evidence generation, synthesis work, and knowledge management functions. The role will enhance decision-making, strengthen program monitoring and evaluation, and advance ICED’s vision of reimagining Africa’s evidence-to-action ecosystem.

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Key Responsibilities

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1. Design, develop, and implement robust data pipelines, algorithms, and machine learning models to analyze large-scale development datasets.
2. Develop predictive and prescriptive analytics to inform program strategies, policy recommendations, and decision-making.
3. Apply AI tools including natural language processing (NLP), image recognition, and geospatial analytics to enhance research, evaluation, and evidence generation.
4. Conduct AI-assisted systematic reviews, evidence gap mapping, and scenario modelling, including automated search, scoping, and extraction of grey and published literature from diverse databases.
5. Translate complex analytical results into actionable insights for program teams, partners, and policymakers.
6. Build and maintain databases, interactive dashboards, visualization tools, and evidence products to support ICED’s projects.
7. Integrate AI-driven analytics into monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) systems to enable adaptive program learning.
8. Explore and apply cutting-edge AI/ML methods to improve program evaluation, evidence synthesis, and decision support.
9. Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and capacity building for internal teams and partners through workshops and collaborative learning.
10. Collaborate with ICED’s research, M&E, and consortium partners to co-design data-driven solutions addressing development challenges.
11. Ensure compliance with data protection, safeguarding, and ethical AI and data privacy standards.
12. Any other responsibilities as assigned by the Research Director

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Qualification, Skills, and Competencies

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Education:

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Master’s degree in data science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Computer Science, Statistics, Applied Mathematics, or related field. PhD is an added advantage.

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Experience and Professional Skills:

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1. Expert proficiency in Python, R, or other data science languages, with strong knowledge of ML libraries (TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn, etc.).
2. Experience in handling large datasets, data wrangling, and building predictive models.
3. Experience applying AI/ML approaches in social impact, development, or policy contexts.
4. Proficiency in data visualization tools (Tableau, Power BI, D3.js).
5. Hands on experience with cloud-based platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud).
6. Strong communication skills to engage technical and non-technical audiences.
7. Passion for Africa-led innovation, inclusiveness, and systems transformation.
8. Proven track record of securing funding or contributing to winning proposals in the development sector.
9. Publications or presentations in relevant data science or development forums.
10. Experience working in a multi-country, consortium-based project in Africa.

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What We Offer

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This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to a pioneering, Africa-led initiative shaping evidence-to-action ecosystems. It provides a competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience, within a dynamic, collaborative, and mission-driven work environment. The role also offers excellent opportunities for professional development and engagement with global thought leadership in data science and evaluation.

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How to Apply

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Interested candidates should submit the following to hr@iced-eval.org (with subject line: Data, AI & Machine Learning Specialist):

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1. A cover letter detailing suitability for the position.
2. A detailed CV with at least three professional referees.
3. A sample or description of prior AI/ML work or projects (optional but encouraged).

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Deadline for applications: 30/11/2025

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Additional Information

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Candidate must have the legal rights to work in Kenya or Ghana.