Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS)

Job Specifications

• ACTS seeks to recruit a Post-doctoral Research Fellow who will support the work of the Gender Youth and Inclusive Development (GYID) program to ensure that the Youth make effective use of technologies that can promote human development and inclusivity.
• The Research Fellow will undertake policy research that promotes the uptake of STI solutions by youth and marginalized groups, participate in implementation activities that prioritize upskilling and reskilling of the Youth workforce as well as supporting the Youth to acquire digital skills for the Gig Economy.
• The Gender Youth and Inclusive Development (GYID) program recognizes the role of Science Technology and Innovation (STI) in the sustainable development in Africa, and more so the importance of the active participation of Women, Youth and marginalized persons.
• Young Men and Women in Kenya represent an essential demographic, which needs to be sufficiently equipped to make the most of emerging opportunities in Technology and the Digital Age. Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) has been proven to be a catalyst for the economic growth of countries, as it has the potential of fostering entrepreneurship and job creation among Youth, uplifting livelihoods and reducing inequalities in communities.

Core Duties of the Post-Doctoral Research Fellow

• The Post-doctoral Research Fellow will be expected to handle the following core tasks as a minimum at the program level.
• Contribute to the development of projects that support the youth and vulnerable groups to harness Science Technology and Innovation (STI)
• Undertake policy research in Science Technology and Innovation (STI) with a special focus on Youth Development
• Support the upskilling and reskilling of the Youth workforce to acquire digital skills for the Gig Economy
• Contribute to research on youth entrepreneurship, youth in innovation and disseminate best practices and policy directions that address unique perspectives of the youth population.
• Produce high quality policy outputs (not limited to reports, policy briefs, dissemination workshops and knowledge exchange events).
• Support the GYID Programme Manager in setting and advancing programme direction through writing of strategy documents, and organizing policy outreach events among, others.
• Mobilize resources through the development of funding proposals targeting Youth and Marginalized Groups.
• Facilitate stakeholder engagements for Youth through workshops and webinars

Minimum Requirements

• The candidate must hold a PhD Degree in a relevant field (e.g. development economics, sociology of science, innovation studies, Policy and governance, and development studies) from a recognized institution; and have at least the following:
• A minimum of 1-2 years post PhD research experience in Youth Empowerment, development issues or youth capacity building.
• Proven experience in designing and managing projects designed for youth and/or marginalized groups is an added advantage.
• An established publication record (e.g. minimum 2 publications; preferably in peer reviewed journals).
• Track record of mobilizing resources for implementing Youth programs.

 Minimum Competences 

 Skills

• Writes effectively and efficiently in a professional approach relevant for policy makers and/or academic audiences
• Multi-tasking and problem solving to adapt well to situations
• Project management

 Knowledge

• Demonstrates knowledge of youth Issues in Kenya and Africa
• Gender equality and inclusivity

 Behaviours

• Recognizes the importance of delivering results through teamwork, taking responsibilities for actions and taking initiative
• Demonstrates respect for others inside and outside the workplace

Desirable Competences

Knowledge

• Youth Advocacy

 Experience

• Working in Youth Development agencies or organizations
• Convening youth forums and platforms including webinars
• Proposal development